Claudia Herrera is a dedicated staff member at Hogg Middle School. Some of her favorite memories of Hogg are the lip sync battle and the talent show.

“It’s just very cool to see the teachers and the kids come out and show us their talents and not be embarrassed by it.” Ms. Herrera said.

One thing that always motivates her are her kids Dmario and Emma.

“My kids are my inspiration and the reason to keep going every day and try to make a difference,” Herrera said.

Ms. Herrera came to Hogg after going to technical school and working for 16 years at a clinic. She started as a parent volunteer and enjoyed it, which led her to join the Hogg staff.

“I was a parent volunteer at my kid’s school when they were younger and I really enjoyed it,” she said, “so that’s what made me change from being in the medical field to coming into education.”

When she is not at school, Ms. Herrera likes to do anything that relaxes her.

“I like to read, spend time with my kids, go on bike rides or walks, watch movies, anything relaxing.”

One of her remarkable traits is being open-minded. “Being a caring person, listening to people, making sure that they are heard,” she stated.

One piece of advice she has for students is to always ask questions. “If you don’t know something, if you doubt something, always ask questions,” Herrera said. “No matter how small the question may be, just ask!”

Quick round of favorites:

Candy - Life savers sour gummies and dark chocolate

TV show - Grey’s Anatomy   

Color - Dark purple

Book - Secret Life of Bees