Helder Guastti da Silva

Helder Guastti da Silva is an exceptional teacher whose innovative approaches, passion for education, and commitment to fostering a sense of community have set him apart as a global role model in the field of education. His journey into teaching was not initially planned, despite coming from a family of educators. However, in 2008, he found his calling in the classroom, captivated by the transformative power of education and its ability to shape minds and, in turn, his own personal growth. 

A hallmark of Helder's teaching philosophy is his unwavering dedication to building affectionate relationships with his students and respecting their individuality. Inspired by Paulo Freire’s principles, he believes in empowering children to become active participants in their learning journey. Helder’s classroom is a space where students feel a profound sense of belonging, enabling them to explore their identities and expand their critical and creative thinking. His methods are grounded in empathy and affection, which he views as universal values that transcend cultural and educational boundaries. 

Helder's innovative project, “As the Other Says...”, demonstrates his commitment to blending tradition with technology. Recognizing the importance of preserving Brazil’s cultural heritage, he collaborated with his fifth-grade students at EMEF Pedro Nolasco to modernize Brazilian folk tales. The project incorporated elements like rhymes, proverbs, and tongue twisters, while using artificial intelligence tools to create contemporary illustrations. This initiative not only fostered a sense of cultural pride among students but also bridged the gap between tradition and innovation, equipping them with skills to preserve and adapt cultural practices in a rapidly evolving world. 

Working in a municipal public school with limited resources and a diverse student body, including children facing social vulnerability, Helder has consistently overcome challenges to deliver a high-quality education. He often supplements scarce resources with personal funds and persistently advocates for his teaching autonomy. His creative use of technology has become a cornerstone of his approach, with activities ranging from recording literary vlogs to hosting virtual poetry readings and using AI tools for artistic projects. These practices have not only enhanced classroom engagement but also contributed to measurable achievements, such as an increase in the school’s IDEB score from 6.4 in 2021 to 6.8 in 2023. 

Beyond the classroom, Helder's impact extends into the community through his Confabulando Reading Space. This volunteer-driven library offers free book lending, storytelling, and English classes, fostering a love for reading and learning among children and families. His work strengthens the bond between school and home, involving families in classroom activities and encouraging intergenerational dialogue on topics such as sustainability. 

Helder's dedication has been recognized with a range of accolades, including the 2024 Educador Nota 10 Award for his innovative use of technology in education. He continues to share his practices with peers through training sessions, publications, and online platforms, promoting a vision of education that is inclusive, transformative, and very human. 

By embedding global citizenship, environmental awareness, and a passion for lifelong learning into his teaching, Helder Guastti da Silva exemplifies the transformative potential of educators in shaping a better, more equitable world.