BOSTON — Latinos for Education recently hosted its fifth annual Latino Educators Shine Awards at the MCLE Conference Center, honoring Federico Pereyra, middle school principal at Innovation Academy Charter School. This year, over 50 Latino educators from across the commonwealth were honored by state legislators for the trailblazing work they do in the classroom every day.
Pereyra was recognized by state Rep. Simon Cataldo (D-14th Middlesex) for his dedication and commitment as an educational leader, as well as for the incredible positive impact he has on students, families, and the broader community. Pereyra was one of 15 charter public school educators to be recognized at the June 23 event.
State Sen. Liz Miranda (D-2nd Suffolk) and Rep. Michael Kushmerek (D-3rd Worcester) were also honored at this year’s award ceremony for their legislative work in advancing educator diversity and retention. The ceremony featured remarks from Miranda, Kushmerek, and Regina Robinson, special assistant to the commissioner. Also speaking were key leaders from Latinos for Education, including CEO and founder Amanda Fernandez, Director of Policy and Advocacy Jacqueline Monterroso, and Chief Operating Officer and Massachusetts Interim Executive Director Migdalia Diaz.
Pereyra joined Innovation Academy in early 2009 as a long-term substitute teacher and his obvious skills earned him a full-time math teaching position the following year. In 2016, he became the middle school dean of students and in 2021, he became the middle school principal. Pereyra is also passionate about track and field, as well as cross country, and he coached both sports while he was a teacher.
Prior to working at Innovation Academy, Pereyra taught in the Dominican Republic from 2005-2008. He taught computer science, Algebra I, Algebra II and physics at schools with a U.S.-based curriculum. Additionally, Pereyra served as co-director of the Andover Breadloaf Writing Workshop at Phillips Academy from 2010-2016.
Pereyra received his bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College, where he majored in computer and information systems, and earned his master’s degree in educational leadership and policy from Boston College.
“I am honored and humbled to have received this award from Latinos for Education,” said Pereyra. “Working at Innovation Academy has given me the opportunity to serve as a role model and leader for our talented students and build meaningful connections with the greater community. I take pride in being a Latino educator and am grateful to organizations like Latinos for Education who unite Latino communities to strengthen learning for all students.”
“Pereyra is a true asset to our students and greater school community,” said Head of School Greg Orpen. “As a school leader, he embodies everything Innovation Academy strives to be, which is an inclusive and rigorous educational space where students can grow into leaders. Congratulations to Pereyra on this truly deserving award.”
