Hans Diaz

Hans Ariel Díaz Herrera’s path as an educator is a story of resilience, innovation, and transformative leadership. Born into a family of modest means, with a construction worker father and a mother who worked as a school food handler, Hans grew up in a community marked by extreme poverty. From an early age, his talent for teaching was evident, as he helped his peers with their studies. Despite financial hardships that required him to work in construction for four years to fund his university degree in pedagogy, Hans remained steadfast in his commitment to education. His career has been defined by a passion for breaking barriers and raising the aspirations of underserved children. 

Hans began his teaching career in underprivileged schools on the outskirts of Santiago, where he quickly stood out as a Master Teacher. Since 2023, he has served as the principal of a small rural school in southern Chile with only 45 students. When he took over, the school lacked even basic connectivity. Under his leadership, the school now has internet access and cutting-edge technology, including Amazon Alexa in classrooms, transforming them into dynamic and interactive learning environments. This integration of artificial intelligence not only modernized the school but also earned regional recognition, with students achieving third place at the 2024 ExpoCiencias Chile and qualifying for the 2025 ExpoCiencias in Abu Dhabi. 

Hans’s approach to education focuses on project-based learning (PBL), technology integration, and creating meaningful, real-world connections. His students have designed bilingual QR-coded signs for local wetlands and tourist attractions, presenting their work on YouTube and developing crucial communication and creative skills. Another standout initiative is the “Economy of Coexistence,” which rewards students with EMAS, a symbolic currency, for positive behaviors. This program has improved attendance, reduced violence, and fostered collaboration, allowing students to redeem their EMAS for rewards such as toys or school trips. 

Beyond the classroom, Hans has led impactful community projects. These include the “Circular Smile” campaign, which collected yogurt containers to support social inclusion programs, and a recycling drive of 36,800 aluminum cans, which funded repairs to the school’s greenhouse. Hans also launched the “Airplane Flight” project, giving young students their first flight experience to broaden their horizons. His environmental leadership includes automating the school’s irrigation system and partnering with local organizations to recycle vegetable oil, solidifying the school’s reputation as a sustainability leader. 

As part of his vision for collaboration, Hans founded the “Friends of the School” group, composed of business leaders and regional influencers who sponsor and support school activities requiring resources beyond what the state provides. Thanks to this initiative, the school has been able to implement innovative projects, organize cultural and sports events, and ensure enriching experiences for its students. 

Hans’s influence also extends to his peers, fostering collaborative networks among educators to share best practices and innovative strategies. Through workshops, talks, and publications, Hans advocates for the transformative power of education and inspires his colleagues to embrace lifelong learning. 

Hans Ariel Díaz Herrera exemplifies the educator as a community leader and catalyst for change. His work not only improves the lives of his students but also sets a benchmark for rural education. By integrating global citizenship, environmental awareness, and advanced technology into his teaching, Hans prepares his students to thrive in an ever-evolving world. His unwavering dedication makes him a worthy candidate for the Global Teacher Prize.