Senior Spotlight: Lisbeth Bravo-Moctezuma, Heritage High

Lisbeth Bravo-Moctezuma’s academic journey began in Wake County classrooms. She’ll soon graduate from Heritage High School, but she won’t be gone for long.

Lisbeth plans to return to WCPSS as a teacher after college, thanks to the district’s Future Teachers Program.

Inspired by her fourth-grade teacher, Ms. Foster, Lisbeth discovered her love for learning and found her voice in the classroom. “English was never easy for me,” she says. “But Ms. Foster helped me fall in love with books and believe in myself.”

She attended Forest Pines Drive Elementary, Wake Forest Middle, and now Heritage High. “Wake County played such a big role in my development,” she says. “I want to give that same support back.”

‘Watch out for Lisbeth’

Future Teachers Program participants are WCPSS graduates who plan to return as educators after earning their degrees. While not a scholarship, the program offers mentorship and professional development, along with guaranteed employment in a Wake County school once participants are certified.

“It feels like a full-circle moment,” Lisbeth says. “To be supported by this district and now have the chance to come back as a teacher is incredible.”

She will attend Wake Tech in the fall to complete her general education requirements, then plans to transfer to either NC State or UNC Charlotte, both part of the North Carolina Teaching Fellows network and known for strong teacher preparation programs.

Laurie Tucker, who taught the Teaching as a Profession courses at Heritage, praised Lisbeth’s dedication. “Watch out for Lisbeth when she returns to WCPSS as a teacher,” Tucker says. “As a former multilingual learner, she understands what it takes to succeed. She’s caring, thoughtful, and brings a positive energy that lights up any room. Her future students will be lucky to have her.”

Learning by doing

At Heritage High, Lisbeth took Teaching as a Profession classes and completed fieldwork in a kindergarten classroom at Heritage Elementary. The experience showed her what it really takes to be a teacher, especially in early grades, where extra support is crucial.

“Lisbeth showed great patience and kindness with our youngest learners,” Tucker says. “She even asked to return after her fieldwork ended, especially to help a new multilingual student.”

Heritage Elementary teacher Ginny Poulsen agreed. “Lisbeth was enthusiastic and encouraging,” Poulsen says. “She built strong connections with English language learners and asked great questions about teaching. She’s a spark of hope for the future of education.”

Though she enjoyed working with young children, Lisbeth’s passion lies with older elementary grades.

“Fourth and fifth grade are where I want to be,” she says. “The content is more advanced, and the students are starting to grow into independent learners. I want my classroom to be colorful, exciting, and full of curiosity.”

Her hard work paid off. She earned third place in the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) state competition for teaching skills, recognized for her creativity and instructional ability.

Driven, determined, and multilingual

Lisbeth is wrapping up a challenging senior year that includes four Advanced Placement courses: Biology, Statistics, French, and Literature. She speaks Spanish fluently and has studied French since 10th grade. Her long-term goal is to master all the Romance languages.

“Lisbeth was thoughtful and reflective,” says AP English teacher Lindsey Reed. “She didn’t speak often, but when she did, everyone listened. Her insights in AP Literature were deep and deliberate, and she used feedback to grow. She handled challenges with quiet determination and a real love of learning.”

Even with a packed schedule, Lisbeth has learned how to take care of herself. “Sometimes all you need is a nap, a sip of water, or a quiet moment to journal,” she says. “You can reset and keep going.”

Looking ahead

In five to 10 years, Lisbeth hopes to be teaching fourth or fifth grade in Wake County, sharing her love of science and helping students discover confidence and curiosity in the classroom. She also hopes to mentor new teachers someday.

“Teaching is a powerful way to serve your community,” she says. “It may be underappreciated, but if it’s something you love, it’s absolutely worth it.”

Her advice to future teachers: “Don’t be afraid to take the leap. If you're passionate about helping others, there’s no better way to give back.”