What a Year of Financial Relief Meant for Aloha HS Teacher Sophia Aguirre

Do you know a teacher who inspires their community?

The first thing Aloha High School English Language Development teacher, Sophia Aguirre, felt when she received OnPoint Community Credit Union’s Educator of the Year award wasn’t excitement. It was relief.

“It was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I can relax for a second. I can breathe,’” Aguirre said.

Relief that reached the classroom: OnPoint named Aguirre Educator of the Year in recognition of her belief that students learn best when they feel a strong sense of belonging. For Aguirre, the award represented much more than a title.

Winners have their rent or mortgage paid for a year by OnPoint. The support came at a pivotal moment in her life. Aguirre was in grad school at the time and often had to stay up late taking on extra work to cover expenses. The financial relief allowed her to complete her Master of Science in Education in Reading and Literacy, and the financial stability also changed Aguirre’s daily experience in the classroom. With less financial pressure, she arrived at school with more energy and focus.

“Throughout the year, I have noticed how circumstances outside of school can affect attendance and learning,” said Aguirre. “With greater stability in my own life, I found it easier to meet students where they are and help them stay engaged in the classroom.”

Creating belonging: The award also allowed Aguirre to strengthen her classroom programming in practical ways. Aguirre used the $2,500 in classroom funding to purchase new headphones so students could practice listening and speaking skills more effectively.

She also purchased supplies for Aloha High School’s annual handprint mural. During the project, more than 100 students painted handprints in the colors of the flags representing their cultures, creating a visual celebration of the school community.

“It’s about belonging,” Aguirre said. “When students feel included, they can succeed.”

Nominations now open for 2026 OnPoint Prize: Do you know a teacher who inspires their community like Aguirre? Nominate them for OnPoint’s Educator of the Year through Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

Learn more at www.onpointcu.com/onpoint-prize