Full Name
Alejandro Diasgranados
Title
2021 District of Columbia Teacher of the Year
Speaker Bio
Dr. Alejandro Diasgranados is an award-winning educator at Seaton Elementary School in Washington, D.C., known for advancing experiential learning and connecting schools, communities, and opportunity to expand what is possible for students. Through innovative classroom practices and strong community partnerships, he works to create learning environments rooted in belonging, curiosity, and real-world experiences.
A former Virginia State University football player turned educator, Diasgranados was named the 2021 D.C. Teacher of the Year and the 2020 National University Teacher of the Year. Through his advocacy and partnerships, he has helped secure critical resources for students and families, including a grant-funded laundry center through the Washington Commanders, a winter coat drive in partnership with the Washington Capitals, and 265 laptops for students through The Drew Barrymore Show.
Beyond the classroom, Diasgranados has collaborated with national education leaders, including U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and Deputy Secretary Cindy Marten, advocating for equitable and inclusive learning environments. His work has been featured nationally on NBC’s Today Show, ABC News, and in People Magazine’s People of the Year.
His doctoral research explores the factors that influence long-term teacher retention in urban school districts, with a particular focus on supporting and retaining Black and Latinx educators.
Diasgranados holds degrees from Virginia State University and Johns Hopkins University and earned his Doctorate in Education from National University.
A former Virginia State University football player turned educator, Diasgranados was named the 2021 D.C. Teacher of the Year and the 2020 National University Teacher of the Year. Through his advocacy and partnerships, he has helped secure critical resources for students and families, including a grant-funded laundry center through the Washington Commanders, a winter coat drive in partnership with the Washington Capitals, and 265 laptops for students through The Drew Barrymore Show.
Beyond the classroom, Diasgranados has collaborated with national education leaders, including U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and Deputy Secretary Cindy Marten, advocating for equitable and inclusive learning environments. His work has been featured nationally on NBC’s Today Show, ABC News, and in People Magazine’s People of the Year.
His doctoral research explores the factors that influence long-term teacher retention in urban school districts, with a particular focus on supporting and retaining Black and Latinx educators.
Diasgranados holds degrees from Virginia State University and Johns Hopkins University and earned his Doctorate in Education from National University.
