LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Sofia Bella is a 3rd-grade teacher at Mater Academy Mountain Vista. She teaches a couple of dozen kids each day, but beyond the classroom, she’s using social media to show the world what a difference teaching can make.
Sofia has 2.9 million followers on TikTok with many of her videos garnering hundreds of thousands of likes. One of her popular videos shows her classroom decor, which is meant to make every one of her students feel comfortable.
“Because of everything that is going on in the world, since they’re so connected, way more connected than I was when I was in 3rd grade. I know they’re aware of issues happening in the world. I want them to feel like whatever Is happening outside, you’re okay in here - it doesn’t matter,” said Sofia.
Sofia’s third-graders can read books like Pink is for Boys, Hair Love and All are Welcome. She says it’s not about politics, it’s about being inclusive.
“I do have boys that like pink, I do have girls with curly hair, I want them to see themselves and be like oh, I’m normal. I’m just like everyone else," Sofia added.
Sofia says she’s using her platform to show future educators and students that school can be a positive experience.
“My goal was to inspire people. I’m not only inspiring my kids but I’m also inspiring kids all over the world to love school and I’m inspiring people to become teachers, which is what we need. We need a lot of teachers who love what they do,” Sofia said.
