Junia Cuellar

Position: Whānau Wai Totara – Year 5 & 6 Teacher
Phone: 09 3601572

Junia is a dedicated and passionate teacher. Born and raised in Texas, USA, she is a proud Mexican American Latina with a strong commitment to education. She pursued her studies at the University of Worcester in England, earning a bachelor’s degree in Primary Initial Teacher Education (Later Years, 5-11 years old). Junia began her teaching career in London, where she taught for two years at an inner-city primary school, focusing on Year 3 and Year 4. Throughout her career, Junia has been a strong advocate for collaborative and restorative teaching practices, believing that a cooperative and inclusive classroom environment fosters meaningful learning and personal growth. In 2024, Junia and her partner Ted decided to embark on an adventure, moving from England to Auckland, NZ. Junia aimed to further her global teaching career and has been warmly welcomed by the students and staff at Freemans Bay School. When she isn’t teaching, Junia enjoys painting and drawing, exploring nature, playing the drums, and spending time with friends and family.