Meet Citlali Flores | Elementary Teacher

We had the good fortune of connecting with Citlali Flores and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Citlali, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born in Monterrey, Mexico, and at the age of three, my family brought me to the United States in search of a better future. I’ve been raised in Dallas,Texas ever since, and my identity is deeply rooted in both my Mexican heritage and the experiences of growing up as an immigrant in the U.S.

As the oldest of three siblings, I naturally stepped into the role of a leader and role model from a young age. I learned to navigate two cultures, translate for my parents, and carry responsibilities that shaped my sense of independence and resilience.

I’m proud to be a first-generation college graduate. My parents are immigrants who came to this country with nothing but hopes for a better life. Watching them work tirelessly and make countless sacrifices taught me the value of perseverance, hard work, and gratitude. Their journey inspired me to push further, to take advantage of every opportunity, and to become someone they could be proud of. My background and upbringing are the foundation of who I am today. My parents have helped me become a driven, compassionate, and grounded individual.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been a teacher for seven years, and my journey hasn’t always been easy. Navigating college without clear guidance and learning to trust advisors was a challenge in itself. The first year of teaching was especially tough. I didn’t know what to expect, and every year since has brought its own unique challenges.

College prepared me in some ways, but the real learning happened inside the classroom, working directly with students. Over time, I’ve learned how to adapt to different learning styles and needs, developing creativity and persistence to find new ways to support every student.

What sets me apart is my dedication to meeting each learner where they are and my willingness to try fresh approaches to help them succeed. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited about continuing to grow as an educator who truly makes a difference.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Spend the morning at the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden. I love going there for their gorgeous scenery and perfect for photos.
Then we would have a picnic lunch by White Rock Lake or rent bikes and ride around the trail. Later, dinner near the lake.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people who deserve recognition in my story, but first and foremost, I want to give all the glory to God. His guidance has carried me through every season.
Also, I want to dedicate my shoutout to my parents. As immigrants, they left everything they knew behind to build a life here and give me and my siblings opportunities they never had. Their sacrifices, hard work, and unwavering belief in me are the reason I’ve been able to chase my dreams and accomplish so much.

I also want to shout out my siblings. Being the oldest meant I always felt the need to set an example, but in many ways, they inspire me just as much. Their love and support have kept me grounded.

Lastly, I want to recognize the community of educators and mentors who guided me along the way. As a first-generation college student, I leaned heavily on teachers and mentors who saw potential in me when I was still learning how to see it in myself. Their encouragement made a lasting impact on both my confidence and my journey.

Every part of who I am today is built on the support and love of others, and I carry that with me in everything I do.

Instagram: _itscitlaliii