Ambassador
"This fellowship and the work of the Lowell Milken Center offer an outstanding platform to foster creative teaching strategies that extend beyond the classroom. What stands out most is the opportunity to explore how art can be a powerful tool to document the Unsung Heroes and stories we share with each other."
Monico Vitela has been teaching visual arts in San Antonio ISD public schools since 2015. He holds a Master’s degree in Bilingual Bicultural Education, a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts with a minor in Art History from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and completed his teaching certification through UTSA. As a visual artist, arts educator, and education activist, Vitela is motivated by the power of community and the belief that education transforms individuals and society. His goal is to create a classroom where students feel empowered to explore their creativity and express themselves through art. He aims to help them discover their voices and connect their work to broader social issues, encouraging social awareness and responsibility. Vitela’s collaborative approach has led to his students creating and exhibiting award-winning artwork locally, throughout Texas, and abroad. He believes that fostering both creativity and critical thinking helps students grow as artists and engaged citizens. Outside of teaching, his passions include painting, drawing, learning family recipes, and spending time with loved ones.
