The Juvenile Court and Community Schools student representative on the San Diego County Board of Education in March was Jesus, a senior at 37ECB.

Jesus was selected for his leadership, character, and his positive influence in the classroom and community. 

“He consistently demonstrates what commitment and hard work look like, setting a powerful example for his peers,” shared Gerardo Galvez, 37ECB vice principal. “He leads not by seeking recognition, but by example. As a leader in the Culinary Arts CTE program, he demonstrates responsibility, collaboration, and an exceptional work ethic,” he said. 

As part of the culinary program at the school, Jesus has participated in SDCOE’s state-certified culinary pre-apprenticeship program, and he and his classmates are getting the chance to cater SDCOE events. And while Jesus has excelled in the culinary program, he plans to attend trade school for HVAC and plumbing after graduation. He’s dabbled in trading and wants to learn more about the stock market. Most of all, he’d like to see himself be successful in the future. 

Jesus is deeply family-oriented, which grounds his values and motivates him to strive for success. His teacher, Marysol Duran shared that Jesus’s maturity and future-oriented mindset are evident in the way he actively works to better himself and prepare for what lies ahead. 

He is grateful to Duran for helping push him to get his work done. 

“She showed me it’s on me and to care about my success,” he said. 

That lesson is reflected in the advice he gives to other JCCS students, “Take advantage of being young, but don’t do dumb things. I realized I messed around too early. Also, that every action has consequences.”

Jesus thanked everyone at the board meeting for the opportunity to share his story and his accomplishments.  

As part of its efforts to highlight transformational learning experiences for students, the San Diego County Board of Education recognizes a student from Juvenile Court and Community Schools at its regular monthly meeting.