Advanced Placement (AP) Teacher Spotlight: Keren Cisneros

My name is Keren Cisneros, and I am proud to teach AP Spanish Language and AP Spanish Literature & Culture at YES Prep East End Secondary. Over the past six years, I’ve been committed to guiding students in Spanish III and AP Spanish courses while also serving as the 11th Grade Level Chair and the AP Spanish Literature Content Facilitator. My dedication has been recognized with the Certificate of Achievement for leading the district in the highest number of students scoring 3 or higher on the AP Spanish Literature exam, along with my designation as a Level III teacher. 

I was born in Monterrey, Mexico, and graduated from Sam Houston State University with a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and a minor in secondary education. My journey into education began with inspiration from my fourth-grade teacher, who always believed in my potential and pushed me to be the best version of myself. Her belief in me planted the seed for my desire to impact students’ lives and help them achieve academic success. 

Transforming the AP Experience 

As an AP teacher, I feel a profound responsibility for my students’ success. Every day, I commit to providing the best AP experience to prepare my students not only for their exams but also for their futures. This commitment inspired me to become an AP reader this year, allowing me to understand exam trends and equip my students more effectively. I want my students to feel challenged, motivated, and supported as they pursue their goals. My classroom is a place of growth, learning, and community, where students can thrive and unlock their full potential. 

The Value of AP Courses 

AP courses are crucial for students because they offer a wealth of opportunities. They prepare students for college, improve their chances of admission, and provide the chance to earn college credit, win scholarships, and save money. In my class, students develop essential skills like time management, responsibility, and commitment—qualities that will serve them in college and throughout their careers. Additionally, mastering Spanish allows my students to confidently communicate and express themselves in two languages, a skill that gives them a competitive edge in the workforce. 

“Mastering Spanish allows my students to confidently communicate and express themselves in two languages." 

Partnerships with Students and Parents 

To my students, I encourage them to not only enroll in AP classes but to excel in them. The workload is significant, but with dedication, success is within their reach. As an AP teacher, I provide the tools, strategies, and resources they need to succeed. To parents, I emphasize the importance of discussing the value of college and AP courses with their children. I urge them to stay involved by checking their students’ progress and helping us hold them accountable for completing their work. 

Stories of Success 

The impact of AP courses is far-reaching. Former students often visit to share how passing the AP Spanish exam saved them time and money in college. They tell me how their improved Spanish skills have given them confidence in writing and speaking. On a personal level, teaching AP courses has allowed me to take more risks in my teaching and has motivated me to continually educate myself to better serve my students. 

I love and enjoy helping students succeed both academically and in life. Our students deserve the best education and every opportunity available to them, and AP courses are a critical part of achieving that. I believe that as AP teachers, we play a pivotal role in helping students reach their academic and life goals.

"Former students often visit to share how passing the AP Spanish exam saved them time and money in college." 

Commitment to Access and Excellence 

At YES Prep, we are committed to providing equitable access to AP courses for all students, ensuring that everyone has the chance to benefit from this rigorous and rewarding program. Unlike other programs, such as dual credit, which require TSIA readiness benchmarks, AP courses are open to all students. This inclusivity reflects our mission to prepare every student for college and beyond. 

Learn More about AP Courses at YES Prep 

Discover how AP courses can empower your student by visiting yesprep.org/AP to learn more about our AP programming and how it supports academic excellence and lifelong success.