Tuesday, February 25, 2025
Will Receive Master of Education Degree in May 2025
When UNT Dallas graduate student Steve Cipriano was growing up and hanging out with friends on the streets of Dallas, he had no idea of his potential. But Mr. Sifuentes, a sixth-grade teacher at Winnetka Elementary School in 1992, did. “He impacted my life,” Cipriano said about the educator known as Mr. Si.
In a time before smartphones, apps, and video games, Cipriano had a lot of idle time as a child approaching his teens. Mr. Si captured Cipriano’s attention at the right time. “I took everything seriously after Mr. Si,” he said, who offered tutoring, a sketchbook, and inspiration to go to class.
UNT Dallas alum Steve Cipriano Holds the Teacher of the Year Award He Received from Dickinson Academy in Grand Prairie
Fast-forward 33 years, and now Cipriano is referred to as Mister C by his elementary school students at Suzanna Dickinson Montessori Academy in Grand Prairie ISD. “When kids started calling me Mister C, I knew I’m needed here,” said Cipriano, recalling a moment of pride, joy, and purpose.
Recently, Cipriano was named Dickinson’s “Teacher of the Year,” chosen by his fellow educators for the honor. He is eligible for district-wide recognition in the coming months. “It’s nice because special education teachers don’t always get recognized along with general education teachers,” he said.
Cipriano has worked full-time in Grand Prairie ISD for 13 years but got his foot in the door even earlier as a part-time substitute willing to interact with students who had disciplinary issues. It was an easy fit. “I knew those kids because that was me,” he said. Just setting foot in the school resonated within Cipriano. “I knew that’s what I needed to do.”
UNT Dallas alum Steve Cipriano in his classroom teaching elementary math
Later, Cipriano became a paraprofessional, working with special education students who required academic and emotional support. But he was ready for more and wanted to become a state-certified teacher.
Six years ago, in 2019, Cipriano went back to school himself, earning an associate’s degree from Dallas College, followed by a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from UNT Dallas, and became state-certified to teach in 2023. Luckily, most classes were online and in the evening, with a few in-person classes following the pandemic. “It’s hard to go to school when you’re married with kids,” Cipriano said. He has a blended family with a son and daughter of his own and his wife’s two daughters.
And he’s not done yet. In May, Cipriano will walk the commencement stage to receive his master of education in curriculum and instruction from UNT Dallas. The achievement will be the culmination of four continuous years here.
Cipriano credits a former leadership and mentorship program called “Call Me MiSTER” aimed at future male teachers for sparking his interest in pursuing a graduate degree. “The fellowship and brotherhood were inspiring,” he said, emphasizing the need for more men in the teaching profession. They serve as role models, leaders, and mentors. “I need to be that example, that Trailblazer.”
UNT Dallas alum Steve Cipriano stands proudly in his classroom at Dickinson Academy in Grand Prairie
At Dickinson Montessori Academy, Cipriano displays his degrees and certificates in his classroom to send a message to students. “They can see their future potential – a goal,” he said. “Everyone has a chance.”
Right now, Cipriano leverages his talent, passion, and experience with a variety of students. “I’m all over the school,” he said. Officially, Cipriano is Special Ed EC-12 Certified, ESL Certified, and an EC-6 Generalist. He will soon add Master of Education to that description.
Steve Cipriano Teaches Math to a Student Using Cards and Pieces of Paper
Steve Cipriano Teaches Math to a Student Using Cards and Pieces of Paper
Cipriano is grateful for the knowledge, skills, and training he has received in the UNT Dallas School of Education and the professional growth and development it encompasses. He is also grateful to the teacher named Mr. Si, who took a chance and took him under his wing back in sixth grade. If only Mr. Si could see him now.
UNT Dallas alum Steve Cipriano teaches math to a student using flash cards and pieces
of paper
In the conversation below, Cipriano reflects on the benefits and positive outcomes of attending UNT Dallas and his future path as an educator, leader and mentor:
How would you describe your experience at UNT Dallas as a graduate student working toward your master’s degree?
My experience at UNT Dallas as a graduate student has been incredibly rewarding. The program has challenged me to think critically about curriculum and instruction while providing the tools to be a more effective and reflective educator. The coursework is rigorous yet meaningful, and I appreciate the emphasis on real-world application. The faculty and my peers have been supportive, creating an environment where collaboration and growth are at the forefront of learning.
What was similar and different from your experience as an undergraduate?
One similarity between my undergraduate and graduate experiences at UNT Dallas is the strong sense of community and support. The faculty at both levels are deeply invested in student success and are always willing to provide guidance. However, the biggest difference is the level of independent research and critical analysis required in graduate school. While my undergraduate experience built a strong foundation in education, my graduate studies have pushed me to refine my leadership skills and instructional practices.
What’s your most memorable moment at UNT Dallas so far?
One of my most memorable moments has been my involvement in the Call Me MiSTER Male Teacher Mentor Program under the leadership of Dr. Lisa Hobson and Dr. Carlton Todd. This program had been life-changing, offering mentorship, guidance, and a strong support system for male educators, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. As a Hispanic male growing up in the 80s and 90s, I rarely saw any teachers who looked like me, and I never imagined that becoming an educator was an achievable dream. This program reinforced my passion for teaching and leadership, making me even more determined to be the role model I once needed for my students.
Do/did you have a favorite professor (and why)?
I have had the privilege of learning from many outstanding professors, but Dr. Ratna Narayan has been especially impactful during my 5011-5012 research course. Her tough guidance and dedication to our success were invaluable, helping me navigate the complexities of educational research. Additionally, the support from my classmates, both in person and through our group texts, made the experience even more enriching. We pushed each other to succeed, and that sense of camaraderie made a challenging course much more manageable.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years (if not retired)?
In the next ten years, I plan to continue growing as an educator and leader. I intend to pursue my Doctorate once it is approved at UNT Dallas, furthering my expertise in education. I also have aspirations of becoming a principal or vice principal, eventually moving into a school board position to advocate for meaningful policy changes. Additionally, I would love to transition into higher education, using my experience to train and mentor future educators as a college professor. My ultimate goal is to make a lasting impact at multiple levels of education.
Would you recommend UNT Dallas/School of Education to others who want to become educators or advance their teaching careers?
Absolutely! UNT Dallas has been instrumental in shaping me into the educator and leader I am today. The School of Education provides a strong foundation in pedagogy, research, and leadership, all while fostering a supportive learning environment. Whether someone is just starting their journey in education or looking to advance their career, I highly recommend UNT Dallas as a place that truly invests in its students’ success.
Bonus: A Journey 20 Years in the Making
One of the greatest lessons I have learned through my educational journey is that it is never too late to pursue your dreams. It took me 20 years (High School Graduate 1999 – Returned 2019) to complete my degree due to life, work, and raising a family, but going back to school was the best decision I ever made. Every challenge I faced made me stronger, and now, as an educated Hispanic male with a master’s degree in progress, I am determined to pave the way for others who may think their dreams are out of reach. My goal is to show my students—especially those from diverse backgrounds—that they, too, can achieve greatness with perseverance and dedication.
From UNT Dallas – Alumni