Davis School District -

This Hispanic Heritage Month, Davis School District is proud to highlight Gabriela Chilton, a third-grade teacher at Wasatch Elementary School. Chilton’s focus as an educator is creating a classroom where every student feels they belong.

“My goal is that my students feel valued and heard,” Chilton said. “I want them to know that we are all working together toward the same goals.”

At 15, Chilton moved from her home country to the United States and entered high school without knowing English.

“I can relate to students who are adjusting to a new culture or language because that was me,” she said. “I want to be a role model and show them that with hard work, they can reach their goals no matter their situation.”

Being bilingual has become one of her strongest tools as an educator.

“It allows me to support English learners throughout the school and also to connect with families,” Chilton said. “It’s important for me to create learning experiences that honor diverse perspectives.”

Her leadership also extends beyond the classroom. A few years ago, Chilton helped launch Latino Night at Wasatch Elementary to bring Spanish-speaking families together with school staff and community resources.

“We wanted families to feel comfortable, informed and connected,” she said. “It gave them the chance to meet teachers and administrators, ask questions and just enjoy time together as families. It was a huge success.”

Celebrating her culture within the school community is a priority for Chilton. Last year, she organized a Spanish musical number for the school’s Christmas Sing-a-long.

“Our students sang and danced to a traditional song in Spanish,” Chilton said. “They were so proud to share their heritage, and it gave them confidence to celebrate who they are.”

For her, teaching is as much about life lessons as academics.

“Keep working hard, be positive, be a friend to everyone,” she said. “Speak up for what you believe is right and never feel ashamed of who you are. We are all unique and have special qualities that make us who we are.”

Celebrating Our Own