Teacher Spotlight: Shan Fu

Coachella Valley Adult School

When Shan Fu walks into her classroom at Coachella Valley Adult School, she brings much more than a lesson plan — she brings life experience, resilience, and a deep understanding of what it means to pursue education as an adult.

Born in the city of Zhangjiang, China, Shan completed her K–12 education and earned her associate degree from Guangdong Radio and TV University. At the age of 27, she made a bold move to the United States, beginning a new chapter filled with both challenges and opportunity. Like many of her students today, her journey started in an ESL classroom at a community college, where she learned English and set her sights on a career in education.

Through hard work and determination, Shan earned her bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies and a Math Single Subject Certificate from San Diego State University in 2014. She later completed her Clear Single Subject Math Credential in 2020.

Now in her fifth year at Coachella Valley Adult School, Shan has made a powerful impact. In addition to her three years of math teaching experience, she has served as a High School Diploma teacher since 2020 — and during that time, she has consistently graduated more students than any other teacher at the school. Her dedication, organization, and genuine care for her students’ success set her apart.

Last year, that commitment was recognized in a big way: Shan was nominated as the 2024 Teacher of the Year — a well-deserved honor that reflects her outstanding work and unwavering dedication to adult learners.

Shan’s own experience as an English language learner gives her a unique connection to her students. “I’ve been in their shoes,” she shares. “Learning a new language, balancing school, work, and family — I understand those challenges firsthand.”

Colleagues and students alike know Shan as hardworking and goal-oriented. “Whatever I commit to,” she says, “I give it my best and hold myself to a high standard.”

Currently, Shan is focused on increasing weekly student attendance and boosting the number of students who complete both the CASAS pre- and post-tests. Long term, she’s committed to continuous self-improvement and lifelong learning — always striving to grow as an educator and help her students reach their goals.

“I’m truly grateful to be part of Coachella Valley Adult School,” Shan says. “Helping others achieve their dreams is more than just a job — it’s my passion.”

Shan Fu’s journey — from Zhangjiang to SDSU to being one of CVAS’s most impactful and respected teachers — is an inspiring reminder of what’s possible through determination, empathy, and a love of learning.