West Carroll Special School District Shines Spotlight on Dedicated Educator April Gonzales

West Carroll Special School District is proud to feature April Gonzales in this week’s Teacher Spotlight.

Mrs. April, a passionate educator from Humboldt/Milan, Tennessee, is currently teaching third and fifth grade intervention at West Carroll Elementary School (WCES). With 16 years in education, including 11 years in classroom teaching, Mrs. April brings both experience and heart to her work with students.

Mrs. April earned her Bachelor of Science in Special Education K–12 from the University of Tennessee at Martin, with additional endorsements in General Education K–6 and English 7–12.

She furthered her education with a Master’s in Teaching and Learning from Union University and is currently pursuing her Education Specialist degree in School Psychology at Lipscomb University.

“I became a teacher because I wanted to make a difference in children’s lives,” Gonzales shared.

“What I enjoy most is the bonds that are made with my kiddos, and the excitement when they accomplish something or master a skill we’ve been working on. Seeing former students grow into successful young adults makes all the hard days worth it.”

One of Mrs. April’s favorite classroom memories highlights her dedication and joy in teaching.

“I had a student who really struggled with reading, especially sounding out unfamiliar words. One day, after going back and forth on a tricky word, he finally got it! I screamed with excitement, which startled him. He laughed and said, ‘Mrs. April, you almost gave me a heart attack!’ That moment reminded me why I teach—it was huge for him and just as meaningful for me.”

In her classroom, Mrs. April emphasizes the importance of safety and trust. “I hope my students know that I see them and hear them. They need to feel comfortable and cared for before the academics come. When they trust me, they want to work hard.”

Outside of the classroom, Mrs. April enjoys spending time with her family at the lake or beach.

She has been married to her husband, Justin, for 21 years, and together they have six children—Bradley, Taylor, Brooklyn, Ja’Darius, Blake, and Lyrik—and two grandchildren, Paris and Preston. “I don’t show them enough, but I don’t know what I would do without them,” she said.

Mrs. April draws inspiration from her life verse, Isaiah 41:9-10:

“I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

April Gonzales’s dedication, warmth, and unwavering commitment to her students make her a standout educator and a valued member of the WCSSD community.