Please share about your life journey and how you found yourself living and working in the City Heights community.
Since 1996, I have been a dedicated employee of the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD). A few years after earning my bachelor’s degree in science from San Diego State University (SDSU), I joined the SDUSD School Police Department. I served as the campus community service officer for Marshall, Cherokee, and Central Elementary Schools, building strong relationships with students, staff, and families.
I was later promoted to supervising community service officer, overseeing safety operations for all City Heights schools. For over 12 years, I proudly supported “Protect Our Future” through community-based policing. That position was unfortunately eliminated in 2017 due to budget cuts.
Soon after, I began a new chapter in building services at Joyner Elementary School. That role led to my promotion as plant operations supervisor at Hoover High School. These positions allowed me to continue serving City Heights directly, working alongside school staff, students, and families to support safe, clean, and welcoming learning environments.
Since 2004, I’ve proudly worked in City Heights. Over the past two decades, I’ve built a lasting connection, rooted in service, respect, and a deep commitment to student success. I didn’t realize how long I’d been serving City Heights until I wrote this!
How long have you served the City Heights/Hoover communities? Describe your current role and what you enjoy the most.
When I first arrived at Hoover, Jason Babineau hired me and said, “I need you to make a change — turn this school around. I want it to be like Disneyland. I want people to say ‘Wow, it’s so nice.’”
I inherited the existing crew, and it took me 10 months to get everyone on board with that vision. Now, our team receives “attaboy” emails regularly — a reflection of how far we’ve come!
What I enjoy most is seeing the positive impact our work has on students and staff — knowing that a clean, safe, and well-maintained campus helps set the tone for student success and school pride.
What accomplishments and impacts are you most proud of?
While there have been many rewarding moments, nothing compares to the overwhelming joy of being invited to high school — and even college — graduations. Knowing I played even a small part in their journey is incredibly meaningful and a powerful reminder that our work leaves a lasting impact.
What changes have you experienced at Hoover over the years?
I’ve seen Hoover transform over the years through major facility upgrades, stronger safety measures, and a deepened commitment to student and family support. One of the most meaningful shifts has been the expansion of wraparound services, including our on-site health clinic and various support programs. These resources help students thrive beyond the classroom. It’s been truly rewarding to be part of a team that fosters a resilient, student-centered environment.
In your opinion, what are the most important challenges facing the community of City Heights today?
City Heights faces real challenges in housing, healthcare, and access to basic resources. Many families struggle with instability, which affects students’ ability to focus and thrive. I believe continued investment in education, health, and community-based partnerships is key to helping families overcome obstacles and thrive.
How do you connect with students, and in what ways do you try to support them?
Even though my primary responsibilities are focused on the physical operations of the school, I make it a priority to connect with students daily. I greet them in the mornings and try to be approachable throughout the day. Small moments of interaction help build trust and show students that every adult on campus is invested in their well-being.
My team and I work hard to create a clean, safe, and welcoming environment because we know students thrive when they feel comfortable and cared for. Whether it’s making sure classrooms are ready for the day, responding quickly to maintenance needs, or ensuring common areas are orderly and functional, everything we do behind the scenes is to support student success. When students see that we care about their space, it reinforces that they are valued and respected.
What’s one thing you’d love to see happen in City Heights in the next 10 years?
In the next decade, I hope to see continued investment in safe, accessible spaces for City Heights youth and families, both in and out of school. Expanded parks, after-school programs, and community centers offering mentorship and job training can make a lasting impact. I also hope for stronger partnerships between schools, local businesses, and service providers to build a more connected, resilient community where every family feels supported and empowered.
Who or what inspires you?
My greatest inspiration comes from my wife and children. They motivate me to lead with purpose, work hard, and set a strong example at home and in the community. I have two daughters — one is graduating from SDSU in just a couple of weeks, and the other is about to start high school. Supporting them has been one of my greatest joys in life.
Do you have a favorite memory of your time working at Hoover?
One of my most meaningful memories at Hoover was reconnecting with former students I had mentored as a school police officer. Now young adults preparing to graduate, some invited me to their graduation ceremonies and thanked me for the support I gave them back in elementary school. Hearing their appreciation and seeing how far they had come was deeply rewarding. It reminded me that even small moments of encouragement can leave a lasting impact on a student’s life.
Tell us a bit about your life outside of your work. What do you enjoy doing?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family. I’m a big fan of both baseball and soccer, and I take pride in supporting my daughters in every way possible. We love weekend walks through the San Diego Zoo and trying out local restaurants. I also coached club soccer for over 12 years.
Is there anything you’d like to learn or try in the future, either personally or professionally?
Looking ahead, I’d love to continue learning and trying new things that challenge and inspire me personally. I have a few experiences on my bucket list that I’m excited to pursue, like running a marathon, skydiving, attending a World Series game, and going to a Formula 1 event with my family. I’m also passionate about traveling and look forward to exploring new places and cultures with my loved ones, creating lasting memories along the way.
What advice or encouragement would you give to youth and community families in City Heights?
To the youth and families of City Heights: Never underestimate the power of perseverance and community. I’m the oldest of 27 grandchildren and the first in my family to graduate from a four-year university. I share this not to boast, but to remind you that your starting point does not define your destination. With dedication, hard work, and belief in yourself, you can go far.
Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. This community is full of strength, resilience, and opportunity — keep pushing forward, stay grounded in your values, and always remember that your journey matters.
Price Philanthropies Foundation recognizes you as a City Heights Hero for all you do for our community, and it is clear you’ve become a hero to those you serve in City Heights. What are your thoughts about this recognition?
I’m truly honored and humbled to be recognized as a City Heights Hero by Price Philanthropies Foundation. This community has given me so much, and to be acknowledged for simply doing what I love — serving our students, families, and schools — means the world to me. I share this recognition with every dedicated staff member, parent, and student who works hard to make City Heights stronger. Being called a “hero” is something I never expected, but it reinforces my commitment to keep showing up, giving back, and helping our community thrive.