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Teacher Spotlight
At the Grandview School District we appreciate our teachers. In the Teacher Spotlight section, we will recognize incoming teachers, new teachers, and veteran teachers alike. Posted monthly, we would like our GSD community of families to get to know our teachers better. Watch monthly for our teachers, and let's support their shine!
January 2026
Mr. Cruz Orozco
Grandview Middle School![]()
When you step into the E-sports room at Grandview High School, the first thing you notice isn’t the glow of the monitors—it’s the sound. Laughter, excitement, and bursts of “Oh wow!” and “Oh no!” fill the space as students lean forward in their chairs, fully immersed in their games and in each other.
For many of them, E-sports is more than just playing video games; it’s an after-school safe spot where friendships are built, confidence grows, and learning happens in unexpected ways. Open to 7th and 8th graders as well as high school students, the club welcomes new members at any time and even offers opportunities to sign up for tournaments with other schools and pursue college scholarships.
The program is led by Mr. Cruz Orozco, whose passion for computers is contagious. With a bachelor’s degree in computer science, he knew early on that technology was his calling. “I wish I had this type of club when I went to high school,” he shares. He laughs as he recalls taking apart his mom’s computer to upgrade the hardware so he could play a game he loved. “She was so mad, but she could see I had a skill set.” Today, he passes that same curiosity and problem-solving spirit on to his students. They manage ethernet connections, set up their own gaming stations, and even learn how to build computers. “I have taught them how to build a computer, because I also want to show them to be good stewards of our funding. I have so many ideas that I would love to offer,” he says.
Beyond the games, Mr. Orozco sees real growth in his students. “This club has helped the students with communication so much,” he explains, noting how teamwork, leadership, and STEM-aligned skills develop naturally through E-sports. Students must meet three requirements to stay in the club: passing grades, appropriate academic behavior, and good attendance. If they fall short, they’re encouraged to get back on track before returning. For Mr. Orozco, it hardly feels like work. “I don’t feel like I work, or this is a job, because I really love it.”
And judging by the joyful shouts echoing from the room, his students feel the same way!