Share about your life journey and how you found yourself living and working in the City Heights community.
I’m proud to be a native of South-Central Los Angeles. I moved to San Diego in 1988 to attend San Diego State University. I majored in criminal justice administration, originally envisioning a career with the Internal Revenue Service.
I started as a teacher’s assistant and a tutor for the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program in 1992 at Wilson Middle School. After a year as a substitute teacher, I was fortunate and found a long-term position. In 1997, I returned to school to earn a master’s in special education from National University.
Fast forward to 2024 and I’m still here at Wilson, proudly working as an Educational Specialist. There’s something truly unique about working with this community, and it’s what keeps me motivated every single day. Go Tigers!
You have served the City Heights community for many years. Describe your current and past roles and what you have enjoyed the most.
I am most proud of the consistency and dedication I’ve maintained throughout these years. Despite receiving various offers for other positions and fields, I chose to stay at Wilson, where I’ve now worked for 33 consecutive years. This commitment to my community is something I hold dear and am truly proud of.
What accomplishments and impacts are you most proud of with your work in the City Heights community?
My most proud accomplishment was when I founded the Man UP! program at Wilson. I started this initiative with a focused goal: to close the achievement gap for African American male students who were facing significant academic challenges. When I began, not a single Black male student had the required grade point average to participate in our eighth-grade promotion ceremony.
Fifteen years later, I’m proud to share that over 99% of our Man UP! boys have participated in our promotion ceremonies and moved on to high school.
What changes have you experienced in City Heights over the years? What partners have been instrumental in this change?
The incredible diversity that has developed here. I believe that learning about other cultures, as well as appreciating my own, fosters a more inclusive environment.
Also, the rise of technology and social media. As a teacher, I’ve seen shifts in how students approach learning. I’m not entirely sure if this is a positive change — it sometimes feels like the world is doing so much for people that we used to learn to do ourselves.
To enhance my work as an educator, I partner with various organizations that help me grow as a teacher. For example, my fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, has adopted Wilson Middle School as part of our mentorship efforts. We support the school by assisting with events, offering tutoring, and serving as guest speakers.
Is there anything that has surprised you the most over the years as a resident of and advocate for City Heights?
One issue that continues to surprise and concern me is the persistent and worsening homeless crisis. It’s difficult to ignore the growing number of individuals who are living on the streets, struggling without adequate shelter or support.
From your perspective, what are the most important challenges facing the community of City Heights today?
Again, housing and housing affordability stand out as a major issue affecting its residents.
An article in the Voice of San Diego once described City Heights as perhaps “the richest poor neighborhood in the country,” capturing a unique paradox: while the area faces severe economic hardship, it is also rich in diversity, resilience, and culture.
What valuable lessons have you learned throughout your efforts that you would like to pass on to others?
1. Self-Care is Essential for Effective Teaching:
I first need to take care of myself. The importance of mental, physical, and emotional health cannot be overstated. Self-care doesn’t just benefit us personally; it directly impacts the quality of support and education we’re able to provide.
2. Advocating for Students is Critical, Especially Those Who Struggle to Advocate for Themselves:
Many students often lack the ability or confidence to advocate for themselves. I am committed to advocating for my students every day. This means ensuring they have access to the curriculum in ways that work for them, through modifications and accommodations tailored to their needs.
Could you tell us a bit about your life outside of your work? What are your other passions, talents, and hobbies that you enjoy?
Outside of work, I’m a deeply committed family man—a father, husband, son, and friend to those who mean the most to me. My goal is to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring disadvantaged Black and brown boys in my community, guiding them toward brighter futures.
As I grow older, I’ve discovered a new hobby: home improvement. My home truly feels like my castle and I love any opportunity to enhance it.
Do you have a favorite local small business, like a restaurant, coffee spot, or shop that you love to support in the community?
Here’s a quick rundown of the businesses I keep coming back to:
1. Canada Steak Burger on University Avenue – This spot offers consistently delicious, high-quality meals.
2. 777 Noodle House on University Avenue – A go-to for anyone craving authentic, hearty Asian dishes.
3. Ponce’s Mexican Restaurant on Adams Avenue – Mexican comfort food with an inviting atmosphere.
4. Pancho Villa Farmer’s Market on El Cajon Boulevard – A shopper’s paradise.
What advice or words of encouragement would you offer to youth and families in City Heights?
For youth, it’s important to keep in mind the value of making your parents proud. Also, choose your friends wisely, as the people you surround yourself with can have a significant influence on your life. Lastly, stay active outside of school by getting involved in activities that help you grow.
For parents, show genuine interest in what’s happening with your children by regularly checking in on their school activities, friendships, and any challenges they may face. Building strong relationships with school staff is another important aspect.
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 am deeply honored to be recognized by Price Philanthropies Foundation as a City Heights Hero. This acknowledgment is truly humbling, as I know there are countless others who deserve this recognition as much, if not more, than I do. Having my principal, Mrs. Duvall, as part of this honor makes it even more meaningful. After 33 years of teaching and mentoring, being recognized by someone I respect so deeply is a profound privilege.