Personal

I was born and raised in Downey, California. My father was Italian and my mother was Mexican/Native Chumash (here when California was a part of Mexico). Both have passed away. I have an older brother and sister who both live in Southern California.

I am married and have two adult step-children (who both attended Cleveland), a son-in-law, and one daughter of my own. We have a cute Pomeranian dog named Prince Zuko.

Professional

After graduating high school, I attended CSULB and CSUN before finally enrolling in my dream school, USC. I majored in Biological Sciences with an emphasis in Physiology.  I intended to go to medical school to become a physician, but life had other intentions. I graduated USC cum laude with a Bachelors of Science, then I did laboratory work with CURE: UCLA Digestive Diseases Research Center before transitioning into my calling, teaching. 

Grover Cleveland Charter High School was the first (and only) school in which I have taught. Cleveland is my second home and I have made sure to be a contributor. While teaching at Cleveland, I got my Master’s of Arts degree graduating summa cum laude in Secondary Science Education at CSUN. 

Some professional achievements include:

• Science Department Chairperson

• Advanced Studies Coordinator

• GATE Coordinator

• Equity & Justice Team Member

• Equitable Grading and Instruction Champion

• Schoology Champion

• Cleveland Governance Council Member

• WASC Accreditation Coordinator & Member

• Instructional Leadership Team Member

• Scholars in Action Club Advisor