This paper presents some results of a qualitative case study that investigated the ways in which a group of high school teachers use modeling when teaching mathematics. From direct observations, interviews, questionnaires and study of events it was possible to identify some arguments that teachers have in order to promote verbal-stated problems as the main way to do mathematical modeling. These results suggest the need to develop strategies that enable an empowerment of teachers on modeling, which transcend the stereotyped verbal-statements towards more realistic situations that involve aspects of daily life and culture in school mathematics.