The 2025-26 school year marks Carlos Mendoza’s fourth with Denair Unified School District, but his first as a teacher in his own classroom. He spent two years as a para-educator and another as a resident teacher. This year, he’ll be front and center.
“I was a little bit nervous to start the year, but that has gone away,” said Mendoza, a 2008 graduate of nearby Delhi High School, and the youngest of four children. “If anything, the nervousness changed into a rush. At the end of the first day, I felt very grateful, and very accomplished.”
Mendoza obtained a degree in psychology from Stanislaus State.
“I think it gives me a better understanding of the mind and of behaviors,” said Mendoza, who provided mental health support for high school students in Modesto before joining DUSD. “I hope to apply that in the classroom.”
Here are some other things you likely don’t know about one of DUSD’s newest teachers:
Family members – I don’t have a family of my own, but I am a proud uncle of four. Tony is 21; J.P. is 20; Ari, my niece, is 18; and Mateo is 14. My siblings are Veronica Davalos, Leo Mendoza, and Beto Mendoza.
Educational background – I received my bachelor’s in psychology from CSU Stanislaus, and I completed my Residency Credential Program through Teachers College of San Joaquin.
Subject/grades taught? – I’ll be teaching AVID, a class meant to prepare students to be successful in school and prepare them for whatever future path they wish to take – either college or career. I will be teaching students ranging from seventh through 12th grades, but most of my classes will be ninth-grade students.
What attracted you to Denair? – One of the main reasons I was attracted to Denair was the sense of belonging. Also, how welcoming the community is and the willingness to support one another.
What most inspires you about teaching? – Honestly, it’s providing students with the support they need to be successful on their own terms and, hopefully, making a positive impact in their lives.
What is a challenge you look forward to tackling this year? – I’m used to working with students one-to-one and I’ve been able to build connections with them. So, I’m looking forward to building the same connections I did before, but this time with the whole classroom.
What is a favorite teaching tool or activity? – I’ve always enjoyed being able to “gamify” a lesson whenever possible. It makes the lesson much more engaging and enjoyable for both students and me.
What do you want your students to remember? – I would like for my students to remember that they will forever be students, because as they are growing up, they will continue to learn new things.
What can parents do to support you? – They can help by communicating with me and their students. Parents are always welcome to email or call me with any questions they may have.
What’s something that would surprise people about your job? – How rewarding it can be. Being able to make connections with students and create memories with them is very fulfilling.
What do you do for fun? – I enjoy spending time with family and friends. And when I can, I try to attend a concert or music festival.
