Mauro Cardoza poses (from left to right) with his wife, Rosie Cardoza, mother, Maria Rosario Cardoza, and his nieces, Jordyn Cardoza and Genesis (Genny) Lopez.

The North Orange County Regional Occupational Program (ROP) is proud to announce Mr. Mauro Cardoza as one of its Employees of the Year, recognizing his unwavering commitment to education and his passion for photography. Cardoza has established himself as an invaluable member of the team, dedicated to fostering student growth and engagement.

Mr. Cardoza’s journey to teaching began with his early passion for photography, which he eventually transformed into a successful career. Having joined North Orange County ROP as a substitute teacher in the Multimedia Pathway in 2019, he assumed the role of CTE Photography Instructor at Valencia High School in 2021. This transition has allowed him to blend his artistic flair with his enthusiasm for mentoring the next generation of artists.

In his classroom, Cardoza promotes a supportive environment where all students are encouraged to develop their skills. He adapts his teaching methods to cater to a diverse range of learners, whether assisting English learners and students with special needs or challenging advanced students to sharpen their techniques. His lessons emphasize critical thinking and hands-on experience, illustrating how photography extends beyond mere art.

Beyond his teaching responsibilities, Cardoza is deeply invested in his students’ success, actively mentoring them in submitting work to various local and county-wide photography competitions, including the OC Artist of the Year and the Yorba Linda Women’s Club awards. He is known for attending school sporting events to capture moments and provide guidance firsthand. Additionally, he serves as the assistant coach for the girls’ soccer team, building trusting and respectful relationships with students.

Cardoza’s contributions reach far beyond the classroom. He plays an essential role in larger school and community initiatives, participating in programs like the Production and Managerial Arts Pathway showcase and the Medical Innovation, Research, and Entrepreneurship program. Through his innovative approach, including turning his classroom into a mock crime scene for photography challenges, he provides students with practical learning experiences that connect classroom concepts to real-world applications.

His commitment to education extends to his professional development as well. Cardoza engages in summer training on project-based learning and collaborates with fellow instructors to design impactful, hands-on learning experiences. His willingness to share insights contributes significantly to fostering a supportive teaching community.

More than just a teacher, Mauro Cardoza embodies the roles of mentor, leader, and source of encouragement for students. His presence at school events, thoughtful instructional methods, and enthusiasm for photography have left a lasting imprint on those he teaches. Cardoza’s classroom is a sanctuary for students to cultivate not only their photographic skills but also the confidence and abilities that will aid their futures.

Join the North Orange County ROP in celebrating Mauro Cardoza’s well-deserved recognition as one of its Employees of the Year. His dedication and contributions have made him a cherished member of the educational community.