Interview, Gil Rosa

A native of Rochester, New York, Gil Rosa (b. 1976) began working for the Rochester City School District in 2001 and later landed a teaching position with the School Without Walls. Rosa discovered his desire to enter the field of education when he visited the Frederick Douglass School as an undergraduate student. Throughout his career, he tailored his classes to the specific needs and interests of his students, covering various topics such as belief systems, hip-hop, racism, and the City of Rochester.

In this interview, Rosa discusses his background and that of his Puerto Rican parents. He also touches on his lack of connection to the local Puerto Rican community. Rosa talks about his experiences as an overweight Latino and how he later used those experiences to develop bonds with his diverse and unique student base. Lastly, Rosa ponders his Latino heritage and identity.