La Mirada High School Teacher, Debra Moreno, was awarded the National Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science Teacher of the Year. “Project Lead the Way” is curriculum and courses created and led by teachers with real-world applications in the areas of biomedical science, computer science, engineering and algebra. According to the website, “PLTW Biomedical Science applies real-world issues by exploring topics like disease, DNA analysis, prosthetic design, public health, and more. Along the way, students gain experience with state-of-the-art tools and techniques that are used by professionals in hospitals and labs every day.”

Moreno explained her first thought when she was told she won the award, “I thought I was being pranked because I got a call really late in the afternoon.” She began teaching at La Mirada High School in 2008 after a career as a nurse. Currently, she teaches Principles of Biomedical Science, Biomedical Innovation, Health and Fitness Management and Medical Assisting. Moreno is the adviser of the Biomedical Club, adviser for Teen CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), assists students for SkillsUSA, she is a CPR/First Aid/AED Instructor, and partnered with the City of La Mirada to have students participate in the “Every 15 Minutes” program. Some advice that Moreno shared, “I think that if you do your job, good things will happen.”