During Barry University’s commencement season, a group of VPK students captured hearts when they surprised their teacher, Cindy Johanna Moreira Montalvo, during commencement as she walked across the stage to receive her Bachelor’s degree in Education.

Cindy earned her degree while working part-time over the last three years at Ms. Claudia’s Village Academy, an early childhood education center located just across the street from Barry University. The surprise celebration was organized by community leader, educator, and former Village of El Portal Mayor Claudia Cubillos, who wanted the children to witness their teacher achieving a milestone through hard work and dedication.

But the story did not end at commencement. After seeing how excited the children were to celebrate Cindy’s accomplishment, Barry University surprised them in return and organized a special tour for them to visit the campus. The students toured the university where their teacher turned her goals into reality and had the opportunity to imagine what their own futures could one day look like.

The visit served as a reminder that inspiration can begin early. Sometimes all it takes is seeing someone you admire achieve a goal to begin believing that you can do it too. With her newly earned degree, Cindy is now stepping into a new chapter with a promotion, continuing to educate young children and make an even greater impact in the community she serves.