WHY DO YOU HAVE PITTSBURG PRIDE?
I have Pittsburg Pride because this is a great organization.

 

WHY PITTSBURG? HOW IS PITTSBURG DIFFERENT FROM OTHER COMMUNITIES?
Pittsburg, to me, is more family orientated
 
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN PITTSBURG?
I work in Pittsburg because it's where I reside.
 
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Being able to interact with the children is what I enjoy most about my job.
 
HOW DO YOU INSPIRE OTHERS?
I try to inspire others by being pleasant to people.
 
WHAT IS MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR TIME AT PUSD?
It is rewarding to feel the energy and the love from other co- workers and staff members.

 

WHY DO YOU HAVE PITTSBURG PRIDE?
I have spent most of my life here in Pittsburg. I was a student at Stoneman Elementary, a member of the GATE program hosted at Willow Cove in 2004, part of the last class promoted from Central Jr. High School in 2008, and finally part of Pittsburg High School's class of 2012. I also got to learn more about the city as a member of the Pride of Pittsburg, the Pittsburg High School Marching Show Band. Wherever life has taken me, I’ve always been led back here… This is home!

 

 

WHY PITTSBURG? HOW IS PITTSBURG DIFFERENT FROM OTHER COMMUNITIES?
Aside from Pittsburg being my home, I love that I have always had a diverse community surrounding me. Being a first-generation American, I spent my early years mainly embracing my Guatemalan culture. Although it is who I am and I love every bit of it, I’m thankful to have learned so much from my friends that all came from different cultures and backgrounds. Growing up in Pittsburg meant hearing different languages, tasting different foods, listening to all kinds of music, and seeing different family traditions right in my neighborhood and schools. It helped me grow into a person that now wants to see that for the future generations in my family and wherever I go.

 

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN PITTSBURG?
Right after high school, I attended Los Medanos College. I became a tutor for students from kindergarten to twelfth grade throughout all of PUSD. As many college students do, I swayed back and forth between the professions I would be pursuing. Working with the children in this district very early in my career made any other option difficult to choose. Since then, I’ve felt called to be a teacher. Once I transferred to San Francisco State University, I worked as a tutor and mentor for High School juniors and seniors in San Francisco. I loved every moment of it, but I always thought back of my experiences with my teachers in Pittsburg. I would think of how my math teacher, Mr. Butterfield, would help me with my calculus classes even while I was in college and he had 6 classes of students of his own and how my english teacher, Mr. Pyle, would always cheer on my small milestones throughout my young adulthood (and still does). My teachers really impacted my understanding of the word “community” and I knew that I wanted to work for this district that continuously molded me into the person that I am today so I could instill those values in the future generations in Pittsburg, as well.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I definitely love my students! They are so funny, smart, and witty. I love having the opportunity to teach them so they can get one step closer to being biliterate. The families I’ve worked with have been great! The cherry on top of working in a great community?! My awesome coworkers. I began my career at PUSD as a substitute teacher. Willow Cove’s staff was always kind and willing to help me throughout my whole journey to where I’m at now. I am very grateful to be part of such a wonderful team.

 

 

HOW DO YOU INSPIRE OTHERS?
I don’t know if I necessarily inspire others, although I hope that my students are inspired every day. I love celebrating my students and their successes! It is my goal for my students to know about the world outside of this small town. As much as I love Pittsburg, I want to make sure that my students leave my class with an understanding of what is just so that they may continue to build on that as they grow up. I want them to learn about inclusion, diversity, about the importance of black and indigenous people of color in our communities and how they help shape our society. I want to make sure that they feel empowered every day in my classroom so that they may empower those around them wherever they go. I don't know if I necessarily do anything specific, but I hope that inspiration is found along the way!

WHAT IS MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR TIME AT PUSD?
The most rewarding thing is seeing how my students have grown as people and scholars by the end of the school year! This is only my 3rd year teaching, but it has been a great treat having my students that are now in 6th grade email me to say hello and to tell me about their experiences in junior high. I can't wait to see them continue to succeed throughout their schooling within PUSD.

 

WHY DO YOU HAVE PITTSBURG PRIDE?
I love my school, Heights. I have worked here for 17 years. I consider our staff to be my friends and my family: it is truly my home. Being away from everything this year has been very difficult but it has made me realize how important my school and Pittsburg are to me. I love organizing events for our community, which has also been difficult this year. So, instead, I have helped organize Latino Cultural Month and Black History Month Bitmoji classrooms with Family Scavenger Hunts.

 

 

WHY PITTSBURG? HOW IS PITTSBURG DIFFERENT FROM OTHER COMMUNITIES?
Pittsburg is a very strong community. I love that there is "Pittsburg Pride" all the way from pre-school to high school. I get teary eyed every time I see Pitt High's marching band. I have never lived or worked in a place with such a strong sense of community.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN PITTSBURG?
I came to Pittsburg by accident, actually. I had friends who were student teachers here and they gave my name to a principal. 17 years later, I wouldn't trade my job for anything.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love my students. I love their honesty, and I love to watch their face as "the light goes on."

HOW DO YOU INSPIRE OTHERS?
I hope I inspire parents and students because school wasn't always easy for me. As a person with learning disabilities, I can relate to how students and parents feel when they are having a difficult time. I often tell parents about my disability and that I went on to get a masters degree, so that they understand a diagnosis isn't the end for their student's academic career but a very helpful tool. I also hope I inspire others with Distance Learning this year. I prefer students in person, but I am making the best of it. I have tried my best to keep my class fully engaged and to support my grade level.

WHAT IS MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR TIME AT PUSD?
The most rewarding thing about my time at PUSD is having students come back and visit me; it fills my heart. I also really enjoy when another teacher says that they remember an ELD training I have presented and that they enjoyed it. 

 

WHY DO YOU HAVE PITTSBURG PRIDE?
As a member of this great and diverse community, I am proud of the resiliency that our community has developed. Regardless of challenges, Pittsburg community members unite to overcome adversity.

 

 

WHY PITTSBURG? HOW IS PITTSBURG DIFFERENT FROM OTHER COMMUNITIES?
Pittsburg has adopted me and therefore it is my home. I will always do what is needed to support our families. Pittsburg’s families have demonstrated faith in our schools, shown their enthusiasm, dedication, and collaboration to help us grow and become one community and that marks the difference from other communities.
 
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN PITTSBURG?
My children were raised in Pittsburg and they attended Pittsburg schools. Prior to working for PUSD, I was a parent volunteer for many years. Through my volunteering work, I became aware of the community’s needs and when the opportunity to serve the Pittsburg community came up, I took on my work commitment with pride. Working in Pittsburg was a good decision and has been a great way to give back to community that I respect and love!
 
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
By nature, I have a collaborative heart and am passionate to help others. I want to help bring significant positive changes to someone’s life. My job as Parent and Family Liaison requires me to have that kind of spirit and heart, so it is a perfect fit. My job is all about helping, supporting, advocating, and making changes in people’s homes. The experiences and outcomes I witness help keep me inspired and committed to do my job.

 

 
HOW DO YOU INSPIRE OTHERS?
I inspire others through my dedication, enthusiasm, and by having a positive attitude. Through the facilitation of different workshops within the district, parents can see my genuineness. I empower them to learn more about the school system, and I share how to advocate for their student, to make sure they succeed academically and socially in our schools.

 

WHAT IS MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR TIME AT PUSD?
The daily interaction with PUSD families has helped me grow and expand in other areas. Troubleshooting parent issues and bringing them solutions matters to me. I have also created meaningful relationships with the families I serve and coworkers throughout the district.
 
ANYTHING YOU WANT TO ADD?
It is a pleasure serving PUSD families, and I will continue with my dedication, like if my time will never end.

 

WHY DO YOU HAVE PITTSBURG PRIDE?
As a resident of Contra Costa County, I am proud to work in a city and school district that cares deeply about ensuring equity and academic excellence through a whole child approach. I am deeply grateful to be part of the Pittsburg “village” that cultivates a culture where students are empowered to become the future community leaders here in the local area.

 

 

WHY PITTSBURG? HOW IS PITTSBURG DIFFERENT FROM OTHER COMMUNITIES?
Pittsburg is distinct from other communities through its deep sense of legacy and pride. After starting with PUSD I immediately noticed how the community works together for collective impact. Everyone bands together to ensure that we achieve our mission of creating life-long learners who contribute positively to the world. The sense of pride in Pittsburg also gives it a distinct flavor and is made evident by the generations of families who are rooted in the city and work towards a flourishing and vibrant community.
 
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN PITTSBURG?
I have been passionate about the Community Schools initiative for more than 10 years and have seen the model in several school districts in the Bay Area. Pittsburg showed me the power of community in Community Schools through its diverse, united, and resilient students, families, educators, and community members.
 
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
The relationships that I have made within the PUSD family is what I love most about my job. Through my co-workers I have learned that life-long learning is not just a goal for our students but also something we encourage amongst each other. I have also been fortunate enough to be around people who love 90’s Hip Hop and R&B as much as I do and enjoy a good laugh.

 

 
HOW DO YOU INSPIRE OTHERS?
Growing up, I had positive mentors who were quick to point out my strengths and gifts even when I didn’t see them in myself. That fuels me to celebrate the successes of others and identify the potential I see in our students. I also draw plenty of inspiration from my co-workers, students, wife and daughter!

 

WHAT IS MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR TIME AT PUSD?
The most rewarding aspect so far has been my role in the inaugural Young Men of Purpose (YMP) mentoring program at Highlands Elementary. The program focuses on character, citizenship, and academics and aims to inspire young men to effectively manage their lives, overcome obstacles, and pursue their goals. Our sessions would be the highlight of my week as the group engaged in community building activities and discussed successes and challenges. The spontaneous visits from former YMP students and their parents have also impressed upon me that PUSD is a family where we encourage each other.

ANYTHING YOU WANT TO ADD?
It is a tremendous privilege and honor to work at PUSD. I look forward to continuing to serve and learn from our community. All while occasionally quoting song lyrics and random scenes from The Office.

 

 

WHY DO YOU HAVE PITTSBURG PRIDE?
Pittsburg is a diverse and invested community and I feel that I am part of it.

 

 

WHY PITTSBURG? HOW IS PITTSBURG DIFFERENT FROM OTHER COMMUNITIES?
Pittsburg was my home for about 10 years and it treated me well. Based on that and despite the fact that we moved out, I wanted to continue supporting Highlands Elementary parent community and its staff anyway possible.
 
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN PITTSBURG?
I was given the opportunity to work in Pittsburg based on my bilingual skills to support with the English Learner Program as well as our Spanish speaking families. I took on the task because I was drawn to serve as a link to facilitate communication between school and families, so parents, in turn, could support their students.

 

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
My role has grown through the 21 years that I have served in the district. I continue assisting our Spanish speaking families as well as many others. I appreciate the trust that families and staff have placed on me to support and/or troubleshoot needs and issues, and to have the freedom to initiate and explore different ways to offer extra support where needed. Being part of a supporting team when completing tasks is also very rewarding.
 
HOW DO YOU INSPIRE OTHERS?
I do not know that I inspire others. However, I am an active participant within our school and family community. My hope is that it leads to increased positive outcomes for all of our stakeholders.

 

 

WHAT IS MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR TIME AT PUSD?
I feel that my work and interaction with the Highlands school community has enabled me to grow at a personal level. Learning about our families strengths and character, has allowed me to expand my areas of reach to better serve them. I believe I have created meaningful relationships with families and their students as well as coworkers and staff throughout the district.
 
ANYTHING YOU WANT TO ADD?
I will continue working with the Pittsburg School District until they decide to get rid of me :)

 

WHY DO YOU HAVE PITTSBURG PRIDE?
My mother and father moved my sister and I to Pittsburg when I was almost 5 years old. I attended Parkside Elementary School, where I discovered a love of music. I fell in love with music because of Mr. French. When musicians from Hillview Junior High came to our campus to show off their band, I knew I had to be a part of that. I went on to Hillview Junior High and music saved me from the crippling anxiety I had about going to a new school, where I knew no one. I continued Band and was a member of the Pride of Pittsburg, The Pirates Marching Show Band with Mr. Cross. I have had other great music instructors, but these men started me off on my music path. This is where my Pittsburg Pride started and where it still comes from today.

 

 

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
This is my twenty-first year teaching with PUSD. My job, especially now that I teach music, is so rewarding. I loved teaching first grade and seeing students' eyes light up when they understood a concept, but music has always been my love. I don't do well with big changes, so going to new schools was hard for me as a child. Music was my connection at every school. Now, I teach music and I try to instill that love in my students. Whether its through instrumental music and teaching band, through vocal music and teaching choir, or just sitting with a class and explaining how the song Sleigh Ride works, I enjoy seeing my class get excited to participate in the lesson. I love that they are enthusiastic to come to class, both when we were doing live instruction on campus and even now, when we are are doing lessons remotely (on the computer). Even during Distance Learning, they are still excited to come and see me on Zoom.

 

 
HOW DO YOU INSPIRE OTHERS?
I don't know how much I inspire others. If I do, it's through the small things. Taking a six-year-old's hand and making her feel safe as we skate during a field trip, explaining to a band member how to better their sound, or just being there to listen when a student needs an ear and shoulder to lean on, I am there for them. I think maybe they inspire me and it just goes full circle.
 
WHAT IS MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR TIME AT PUSD?
My most rewarding thing about my time at PUSD is watching my own daughters grow up in the same district that I grew up attending. I have come full circle now watching my oldest daughter, Ella, be a part of the Pride of Pittsburg, The Pirates Marching Show Band. I get to see it all again through the eyes of my daughters.
 
ANYTHING YOU WANT TO ADD?
Thank you to a community that has been there for me through good times and hard; I can't thank you all enough.

 

WHY DO YOU HAVE PITTSBURG PRIDE?
I was born and raised in Pittsburg. I am a 4th generation PUSD employee (starting with my great grandfather - Original head custodian at the original Central JH), Parkside Alumni (K-5th), I went from one side of the counter to the other. I tell Mr. Varner, "You're stuck with me!" Pittsburg High School graduation class of 2000. Once a Pirate - Always a Pirate!!

 

 

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love working with the children, they remind me every day to enjoy the simple things in life. I love working with such an awesome team of positive people. I have the best bosses in the world, Mr. Varner and Ms. Ireland!
 
HOW DO YOU INSPIRE OTHERS?
I think I inspire others to do the right thing, be kind, do the things you love, be able to laugh at yourself, and stay positive. I love being artistic with photography, coloring, and Color Street nails. I think this allows me to inspire others to express themselves artistically.

 

 
WHAT IS MOST REWARDING ABOUT YOUR TIME AT PUSD?
Seeing the smiles on the kids' faces makes me smile. Watching them grow, learn, and mature makes me proud. I love it when I make phone calls and former students, who haven't heard my voice in 10 years, know who I am before I even announce myself. They know my voice and they tell me how they remember me cleaning their scrapes at recess or helping them with another issue. It makes me feel like I made a difference.
 
ANYTHING YOU WANT TO ADD?
#ParksideRules

 

 

WHY DO YOU HAVE PITTSBURG PRIDE?
I’ve been in Pittsburg my whole life. I was raised here, and received my education from Village, Heights, Los Medanos, Hillview and finally Pittsburg High School, graduating in 1982. While residing in Pittsburg, I have acquired many friends from all ethnic backgrounds and love them all.

 

 

 

 

ANYTHING YOU WANT TO ADD?
I am very humbled to be honored and to be of service of PUSD families. I appreciate the support and trust that my current and previous supervisors and school administrators have given me. The freedom they gave me when I first started full-time helped me develop into who I am today. Thank you and Go Pirates!

 

Why Do You Have Pittsburg Pride?
Growing up in Pittsburg it’s hard not to have pride. My parents both grew up in Pittsburg, and I saw the pride in them. My mother, Shirley Archuleta, is a retired Oncology Nurse. When we would go to the store, she would see someone she knows and talk to them for what seemed like an eternity. People knew my mom was a nurse and would confide their health concerns or their family’s ailments; they wanted and trusted her opinion. That showed me at a young age that Pittsburg residents took care of each other.

 

My father, Jack Fernandez, is the kind of guy that everyone in Pittsburg knows. I’ve seen how he gives back to the community of Pittsburg, through many years of coaching. My dad has been on the booster committee for the Pittsburg High football team for over 20 years! I have accompanied him to booster events many times and when I see fellow Pittsburg High alumni give back at these events, it encourages me to do the same. Giving his time to the town he loves brings him a lot of happiness and I admire him for that.

When I am asked why I have Pittsburg Pride, I have to say it was modeled my entire life by my parents. I saw their love for this town, and I wanted to do the same. Pittsburg is a small town and still has that “small-town” feel.

 

Why Pittsburg? How is Pittsburg Different from Other Communities?
“Pittsburg looks out for Pittsburg,” is a saying I have heard for most of my life. I can attest that it is not just a saying, it really happens…in many ways, which I’ll try to illustrate below.

I remember feeling proud in school, knowing many of the faculty members knew my family. It was a sense of community that gave me a better learning experience. Growing up, we always went to Pittsburg High football games. We would sit with family and friends to watch the game. I remember being mesmerized on Friday nights with the game, the band, and the chants. It’s a Pittsburg Pride feeling you get. But, besides just connecting through athletics, we also connect when there’s a time of need. I have personally witnessed people come together to raise money for fellow community members with outstanding hospital bills.

 

Within the school community, while working at Parkside, I’ve seen a whole other side of giving back. I’ve seen staff give extra backpacks, clothing, and school supplies to students in need. We have sponsored families during the holidays by providing meals and gifts. It is amazing to see our community so willing to give and look out for each other.

 

You Graduated from Pittsburg High, Right? Why Did You Decide to Come Back to Your Hometown and Teach?
I graduated in the class of 1999 from Pittsburg High School. During my time as a student in PUSD, I had some amazing teachers that taught me more than just the standards. After I graduated, I wanted to do the same. Like my parents instilled Pittsburg Pride in me, this is my way of giving back to a town that helped raise me. Teaching at Parkside has been a fit because I’m constantly reminded about the importance of family and what this small town represents.

What Do You Love Most About Your Job?
The part of my job I love the most is getting to know my students. Each student has their own unique personality. Using their personality and interests to teach them is rewarding. We have amazing students that come in and out of our school district. It is an amazing and proud feeling to be greeted with joy from a current or former student at the store or outside of school.

 

How Do You Try to Inspire Others?
I inspire others by talking to them and getting to know them. You can get to know students by listening and watching their actions. As an educator, you want to find what motivates students, and you build from that to inspire them.

What is Most Rewarding About Your Time at PUSD?
In my first year of teaching, I was not at Parkside. I taught fifth grade and did not have any books for my class library. Word got back to the librarian at Parkside and she rallied the teachers and staff to help me out. A few days later, I received seven boxes of books for my class library. I appreciated the support from Parkside and will never forget this act of kindness.

Anything You Want to Add?
I have worked with many amazing people throughout my years as a substitute and full-time teacher. These educators have inspired and motivated me to elevate myself as a teacher. I want to give a shout-out to all of the past and present teachers I have had the honor to learn from. You are some of the most amazing teachers! Thank you, for making me strive to be the best teacher I can be.

 

 

Why Do You Have Pittsburg Pride?
Pittsburg is a huge part of who I am. I have lived in Pittsburg my entire life! I attended Parkside Elementary, Central Jr. High, and Pittsburg High. I had a positive experience growing up in Pittsburg and now working here. Both combined have instilled a great sense of pride in my heart for the place that I’m from. I am fortunate to be from here and now given the chance to give back. The youth in our schools are such wonderful young people with so much to give and I love that!

 

 
Why Pittsburg? How is Pittsburg Different from Other Communities?
Pittsburg is a great representation of a “melting pot” with such a diverse population and as diverse as it is, we are a pretty close-knit community. I feel we are a community that is welcoming, safe, and pleasant.
 
Did You Graduate from Pittsburg High? If So, Why Did You Decide to Work in Your Hometown?
I am indeed a proud Pittsburg High graduate (Class of 2006!). Go Pirates! I have been working with youth for 13 years and in PUSD schools for 10 years. I just love working in my hometown. It was actually in high school that I found my calling in life and decided to work with youth. I knew I wanted to become the best version of myself so that I could one day become an example and mentor for young people in my community. The joy and benefits I received from my educational experience here in Pittsburg are immeasurable, so I want to give back to my community and school district. Working in my hometown has aided me in my service because I am part of the same diverse culture my youth are from; therefore, I can understand them better.

 

 

What Do You Love Most About Your Job?
I do not see what I do as merely a job; it is more of an opportunity. Each day I am met with countless opportunities to truly make an impact. My job is to help put supports in place for our at-risk or most vulnerable students. I strive to do this by reaching students in their classrooms, in the After School Programs, or in the dance/sports programs I coach. Additionally, I enjoy teaching students relaxation and reflective activities in the Reflection Room at Willow Cove Elementary School. It is a new room we opened to provide a safe and peaceful place on our site where students can come when they are having a rough day or conflicts. Every day is different and I love it! I aim to help build independent, confident students and leaders. It’s amazing for us all to watch the shy, quiet youth unfold into confident young people. Also, I want to point out that every day I come to work, I am met by so many encouraging people who have the same aspirations I do. There are so many amazing people to learn from in PUSD.

 

 

How Do You Try to Inspire Others?
Those who know me or have worked alongside me know that I truly believe in the potential and future of every person. Something I remind others is that our youth are not “just kids” as some describe them. Our youth are young people with great potential; they are future adults who can bring something special to others. I want others to also know this and I model it by setting high expectations for our youth. I help guide them in their journeys by teaching them about hard work. I seek to inspire youth by reminding them that I believe in them and that they can do anything they put their minds and hearts into. I make sure the students know that I care for them and their future. I want to inspire others in PUSD to work hard in making a difference in young people’s lives because every young person in our district deserves it.

 

What is Most Rewarding About Your Time at PUSD?
I am blessed each day with opportunities to have a positive impact on someone’s day and that has been the most rewarding of all. Knowing that I can make a difference in someone’s life, or even just their day, is fulfilling on so many levels. Some days are tough, but I know at the end of each day that what I do for youth is something good and I feel proud of that. In addition, working in PUSD schools and closely with students and their families, I’ve been blessed with becoming a member of so many families. I genuinely feel so honored and fortunate to be backed by the love and trust of so many people with their children.

 

 

Why Pittsburg?
I was born and raised in Pittsburg and am extremely proud of our community. Prior to becoming a Principal at Hillview, I was an English and AVID teacher at Pittsburg High School and a Vice-Principal at Hillview. Not only have I worked in Pittsburg for the past 24 years, but I am also a product of Pittsburg Unified. I attended Highlands Elementary, Central Jr. High School, and graduated from Pittsburg High. I raised my daughter in Pittsburg and am proud that she is also a Pittsburg High graduate.

 

How is Pittsburg Different from Other Communities?
Pittsburg Unified has been a great foundation for many of my friends and family members, giving opportunities to create life-changing experiences that help shape this community in which we live and work. I love how diverse our students and families are about their cultures, and how willing they are to be accepting of others who come from different backgrounds.

 

What is Most Rewarding about Your Time at PUSD?
Because I have been a part of PUSD for so long, I have the honor of seeing the successes of former students come back from college, from career opportunities, as parents of current PUSD students. I truly believe that the best thing we can do for our students is to give them choices. In order to inspire our students, we need to connect learning in the classroom to real-world, future goals and dreams.

 

Why Do You Have Pittsburg Pride?
I love being able to work in a community in which I grew up and see how much our Pittsburg community continues to give and inspire those around us. Once a pirate, always a pirate!

Why Do You Have Pittsburg Pride?
I have Pittsburg Pride because of the teamwork, can-do attitude of my co-workers, and the deep respect I have for all of the administrators. I have worked for more than 22 years at PUSD and have deep roots in this community.

 

 

Why Pittsburg? How is Pittsburg Different from Other Communities?
I have lived in Pittsburg for about 30 years. All five of my children attended Heights Elementary and Pittsburg schools. My granddaughter currently attends Rancho Medanos Junior High School. I really enjoy the positive attributes of living in a small town; we know each other and look out for one another.

 

What Do You Love Most About Your Job?
I love my job because of my connection to the Heights community. I am fortunate to live and work in the same neighborhood.

How Do You Try to Inspire?
I try to be of service to our Heights families in any way that I can. I am happy to be supportive of our families and scholars by tapping into different community resources. By bringing resources to my Heights families, I try to make sure all our scholars have what they need to be successful in school.

 

 

What is Most Rewarding About Your Time with PUSD?
I have been taught so much about what it takes to educate and provide emotional support to our scholars. I am grateful for the experiences I have had and the many life-long friendships.

 

Why Do You Have Pittsburg Pride?
I have had the honor of working with Pittsburg Unified School District for the past 22 years. I have seen our school district and community grow together through exceptional support for our students and families. I take pride in being an educator and administrator for Pittsburg Unified. I believe making lasting relationships with students, parents, and colleagues makes a better community for learning. I have Pittsburg Pride because I have grown as an educator and feel I am a part of our young scholars' developmental years that will support their future growth as life-long learners.

 

 

Why Pittsburg? How is Pittsburg Different from Other Communities?
Pittsburg is a community that wants the best for their children. I chose this community because my parents and grandparents were raised here and Pittsburg has so much pride and tradition. Pittsburg is different from other communities because families embrace each other when they know you care for them and their families.

 

What Do You Love Most About Your Job?
I love my job at Hillview because I feel the students, staff, and families have embraced my leadership and we have built trust and community that makes me have a sense of belonging. I am so thankful to get the opportunity to work with many of my former students' children and reconnect with the strong family ties to Pittsburg.

 

 

How Do You Try to Inspire Scholars?
I inspire students to come with a positive attitude every day, despite the challenges that many of our scholars face. I also try to inspire our scholars by leading by example. This means coming to school with a positive attitude and showing every scholar that you believe in them and are willing to go the extra mile for students that really need you.

 

 

 

When did you graduate? How did your time at PHS help prepare you for your career?
I graduated from PHS in 2014. I played football and wrestled at PHS. The balance of school and sports taught me how to manage my time. Along with managing my time, I learned that having the skills and brains is only half the work. In order to succeed, you can't be lazy and complacent. You must complete all the work you are assigned and build relationships with your superiors.

 

 

 

 

Go Pirates – Pittsburg is truly an amazing community. Our strength is our diversity. I always have a sense of pride when I tell people I am Assistant Principal at Pittsburg High School. I was born and grew up in the Fiji Islands in Lautoka city- the second largest city in the Fiji Islands. I graduated High School from Natabua High School in Lautoka and obtained my Bachelors of Science Degree from The University of the South Pacific in Suva Fiji Islands. I immigrated to the USA in 2007 from New Zealand where I lived for 6 years. I started working for Pittsburg Unified school district in August 2007.  I was always passionate about teaching as I love being with kids and helping them to become successful in life. Since Pittsburg is my home now, I made a commitment to help and serve the people of Pittsburg and the students of Pittsburg High School.  I want to make a difference in the life of students at Pittsburg High School. My greatest joy is seeing students from Pittsburg High School doing well in their life.

 

 

I started with teaching Physics and Forensic Science at Pittsburg High School in 2007. The road to teaching at Pittsburg High School actually began in 1995 in the Fiji Island. I taught Math/Physics/Chemistry in various schools in the Fiji Islands for 8 years, Tangaroa College in Otara Auckland New Zealand for 3 years before moving to Pittsburg, California in 2007. This is my 11th year at Pittsburg High School. It is not easy to move from one country to another. Moving to a new country is always a challenge but this did not deter me from moving and facing the reality of life and learning about other cultures. I always remained optimistic. I had very good family support when I moved to the United States, therefore, settling here was really easy. Driving and getting a teaching job was not easy. It took me some time to get used to a steering wheel on the left-hand side of the car and driving on the right-hand side of the road. To get into teaching, I had to do my foreign transcript evaluation and so many different types of testing before I could apply for the teaching credential. The evaluation process and getting my single subject preliminary teaching credential took me a good 6 months. While teaching at Pittsburg High School, I went back to college -  completed my Master's Degree and my Administrative Teaching Credential from Saint Mary’s College in Moraga.

 

 

This is my 11th year at Pittsburg High School – 7 years as a teacher and the last 4 years as an Assistant Principal. After being in the education profession for 23 years, I am totally blessed to be at Pittsburg High School and found fulfillment in a career for which I have true passion. As a teacher I know I provided a stimulating learning environment for the students at Pittsburg High School. I am honored to be Assistant Principal at Pittsburg High School and am so proud to serve our students, parents, and staff within the Pittsburg community for the past 11 years. I always want students to feel safe, valued and genuinely cared for at Pittsburg High School.

 

 

I would like to highly commend and acknowledge the Leadership teachers at Pittsburg High School for increasing and spreading the Pittsburg Pride in school. I genuinely believe school spirit is important because it sets the tone for various aspects of the school and its students. When the student body is involved in events on and off campus, it demonstrates a passion for Pirate Pride that is immeasurable and contagious.  I believe that school spirit translates into higher expectations of one’s self and surroundings, pushing for positive changes in school and home.

 

I encourage students and teachers to show their love for Pittsburg High School every single day because it truly is wonderful to be a Pirate. I would like to thank everyone at Pittsburg Unified School District for their unwavering commitment and support for all the students in this District. My life is my message and it is our choices that show what we truly are. I am hoping I will and can inspire the students at Pittsburg High School to pursue their dreams. Life is a journey – never stop learning.

 

 

I grew up in California, but the only Pittsburgh I knew of was in Pennsylvania, and I’d lived in the Bay Area for about six years before I ever set foot in California’s Pittsburg. At the time, Hillview Junior High School was one of the partner schools for the St. Mary’s College credentialing program, and I had to visit it. I had no desire to return. I didn’t want to teach middle school and didn’t want to drive way out to Pittsburg. Turns out Hillview was the only partner school that I could make work for my schedule. I figured I could get through a semester, and then I’d be on my way. Then, they offered to hire me as an intern at Hillview, which allowed me to finish my credential AND get paid. I had a little baby at home and plenty of student debt, so it was an easy choice. I could make it through a year, finish my credential, and then I’d be off to teach AP Senior English in a district closer to home.

 

Six years later, I was still teaching at Hillview. And for the past eight years, I’ve been an administrator at the elementary level, mostly at Willow Cove Elementary School. That’s over 14 years in Pittsburg. How did that happen?

 

 

I’m not really sure, or I can’t really put it in words. Somewhere along the way, I realized I didn’t need to work closer to home because Pittsburg had become like a second home to me. I realized I didn’t need to teach a particular subject or work at a particular level because Pittsburg is full of good, hard-working people and families that I want to serve. People who look different, talk different, come from different places and backgrounds, but who are here now working together and learning together.

 

I have spent the bulk of my adult life working in Pittsburg, and while it is not what I was looking for, it is what I was supposed to find. I’m proud to work with such dedicated teachers, staff, and administrators, many of whom grew up in Pittsburg themselves. I’m proud of the relationships I have with PUSD employees and families. And I’m proud of so many students that I’ve seen go through the schools where I have worked. I’m proud to be a part of this community and grateful that my life didn’t go according to plan.

 

 

Although I did not grow up in Pittsburg or graduate from PHS, it is home for me. I was born and raised in Hayward and graduated from Mt. Eden High School. Upon graduation, I attended San Jose State and Saint Mary’s College. I then started my teaching career at Mt. Eden High School, as a physical education teacher and basketball coach, and became an assistant principal. I started working at Pittsburg High School in 2010, and I plan to stay until they kick me out…or I retire.

 

 

I love Pittsburg High School and the community of Pittsburg. It is rich in pride and tradition, and it is very diverse, embracing the cultural backgrounds of all students. I feel very connected to Pittsburg High School and the community. I love coming to work each day, and I still love and respect what I do and the students I serve. PUSD is a great fit for me…and it was a fit from the first day as well as a great adventure.

 

 

What I love most about my job is the daily interactions with the students. I love the human connections and the relationships that we build with our students. I always came into education with the belief I wanted to make a difference in my students’ lives - to make them aware they are important and to make them feel like somebody. All the education in the world will never take the place of the relationships we build with our students. My wish is to leave a legacy of relationships. We have the best students you could ever ask for and they appreciate everything we do for them. My wish is that they all will reach their true potential and lead productive, fulfilling lives…and always feel that someone cared and guided them along the paths of life.

 

 

My Pittsburg Pride all started with a house. I found a cute little stand-alone house I could buy all on my own in a quiet little neighborhood here in Pittsburg. Little did I know that my little home and move to Pittsburg would lead me to become so involved in our schools and our community! I have been a parent and community member here in Pittsburg. I have also had the opportunity to serve the children, teachers, and families of Pittsburg working as a teacher, an instructional coach, and now as an administrator at Parkside Elementary School.

 

 

Why Pittsburg?

 

This has been my home for almost my entire life; I was raised in Pittsburg, attended Highlands Elementary, Hillview Junior High and Pittsburg High School as a child. After graduating from college and obtaining my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, I came back to teach in Pittsburg because of the spirit and pride within our families and community. I wanted to give back to the place that gave me so many opportunities to build character, skills, and relationships that allowed me to thrive in life outside of Pittsburg. When I came back and began teaching here straight out of college, I knew that this would remain my professional home. Our students and families deserve people who understand them, and who know their value. Our students have so many gifts to offer, and it is my personal mission to help teachers, staff, and families uncover and reveal those gifts.

 

What makes Pittsburg different than other communities is the people! Many of our families have generations of family still residing here. It’s wonderful to inspire and encourage the children of parents I grew up with. Our families are passionate about this town and the many traditions that continue.

 

What I love most about my job are the students! It sounds so cliché to say, but it is what honestly drives me each and every day. Many of our students are so resilient and have great stories to tell. They look forward to a consistent face every day, knowing that they have someone who cares about them and supports their academic and socio-emotional learning. For this, I wake up every day with a purpose. For this, I give my whole heart to Pittsburg.

 

 

My journey with Pittsburg Pride began in August 1998 as a first year second-grade teacher at Willow Cove Elementary. I was a young graduate from Saint Mary’s College, and as a new teacher, I wanted to make a difference. My desire was to serve and inspire our scholars to reach their fullest potential.  I believe that all students are capable and have the potential to succeed with support, respect and the right resources and tools.  The metaphor I like to use is a beautiful garden with a variety of flowers in different colors, sizes, and shapes, and they need the right amount of water, sun, soil, and care. Similarly, our scholars need a champion who believes in them and shows them what they are capable of accomplishing.  I have had students come to my classroom at the beginning of the year, not knowing how to read and disliking math, but then leave my classroom at the end of the year as a reader and enjoying math.  Over the years, former students have visited me and told me that I inspired them to go to college. It’s an extremely rewarding feeling, and I am continuously motivated to do what I do because of it.

 

 

 

 

My name is Johanna Estrada-Ballardo and I am a Criminalist with the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab. I am a native of Pittsburg and attended Foothill Elementary, Central Junior High School, and lastly Pittsburg High School. After graduating from Pittsburg High School in 2002, I went on and received my Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Davis. I have been working at the Crime Lab since 2006 in both the Forensic Biology and Crime Scene Units.

 

My role as a Criminalist is exciting and each day is different from the next. I examine evidence for biological fluids, perform DNA analysis, and testify in court to my findings. I examine evidence in a variety of case types, ranging from property crimes to homicides. I also document crime scenes and collect evidence for potential future testing.
What I enjoy most about working in the county I was raised in, is that I get to work with so many other Pittsburg graduates who have gone on to work in Law Enforcement. Whether they are bringing evidence into the lab for analysis or working with them while processing a crime scene, it’s always a nice surprise to see a familiar face. Some of these faces were with me the day I decided I wanted to go into the Forensics field and have been nothing but supportive in my goals.

I always have a sense of pride when I tell people I am a product of Pittsburg. The diversity, the friends that turned into family, and the continuous support have shaped me into the person I am today. I only hope that I can inspire other future grads to pursue their dreams.

 

 

 

Why Do You Have Pittsburg Pride?
Pittsburg Pride can come in many forms. For me, My Pittsburg Pride stems from being part of a diverse community that embraces the cultural melting pot Pittsburg is made of. Born and raised in Pittsburg attending Highlands Elementary, Hillview Junior High School, and Pittsburg High School, I can only speak from experience that Pittsburg has attributed to the many qualities that make me who I am today. Growing up in the City of Pittsburg I knew I wanted to give back to a community that gave so much to me. Education growing up was of importance to our family who not only grew up and resided in Pittsburg for generations but who also served the community to which they lived. From a great-grandfather who served as an officer for the Pittsburg Police Department, to a father who served and worked for the City of Pittsburg Recreation Department and contributed to the Development of the City of Pittsburg, I can say that Pittsburg Pride has been instilled in me all my life.

Why Did You Come Back to Pittsburg to be a Vice Principal? Why is Pittsburg Different from Other Communities?
Being able to start my career as a Social Studies/English/and Leadership Teacher at Hillview Junior High school, a school that I attended when I was a little girl was very special. It was then that I knew I had chosen a career that could not have been more fitting. Being nominated and receiving teacher of the year among colleagues, and being nominated as FSN 2007 Teacher of the Bay Area was an absolute honor, as I knew at best I represented Pittsburg Unified and my city that was known for Hard work, Determination, and Perseverance. Throughout my career, I have been afforded many opportunities that have made me a better teacher, a better administrator, and a lifelong learner. With 16 years in education serving Pittsburg Unified School District, Monterey Peninsula Unified School District, and Oakley Union Elementary School District, the saying will always hold true in my heart that “There is No Place Like Home”. Pittsburg is home. It is a place I am proud to say I am from. It is a place that when people ask me “why did you come back home to Pittsburg?” I ask them... “Why Not?” I am a product of Pittsburg Unified School District and the community to which I serve and I am very proud of that.
 
What Do You Love Most About Your Job?
Having the opportunity to serve as Vice Principal of Los Medanos Elementary school is an absolute honor. Every day when I go to work I am excited. I love what I do and I love who I serve. It is an honor to co-facilitate a school and work with a team of teachers and for a district that I have the utmost respect for. From the hugs at recess, to the parent meetings, to the planning of Professional Development, to the teachers and staff of Team Los Medanos and the families and students that make up our school community, there is not a day that goes by where I remind myself how lucky I am to get to do what I do on a daily basis. I absolutely love my job and appreciate the opportunities I have been entrusted with to make a difference in my community.

Any Other Thoughts?
Pittsburg Pride is not just about claiming a city with victorious colors of orange and black. It is not just about chanting in a stadium the story of pirate territory. Pittsburg Pride is knowing that the harder you work for something, the greater you will feel when you achieve it because Pittsburg Pride is something that through humility and gratitude can be achieved and can be shared for generations to come.

 

 

 

My name is James Pena and I am currently the new School Resource Officer for Black Diamond High School and Pittsburg High School. I am excited for the 2018-2019 school year and getting to know the school staff and students.

 

 

 

 

 

Officer Y. Smith is a native of the Bronx, New York. He attended Saint Mary’s College of California on a full basketball scholarship. After graduating with a bachelor's degree in communication, he played professional basketball in Australia for two seasons. Upon his return to the United States, he joined the Pittsburg Police Department in August of 2017. He says he has a passion for working with the youth and being a role model. Officer Smith is currently assigned as the School Resource Officer (SRO) at Martin Luther King Junior High School. His goal is to provide a positive influence on the scholars.

 

 

 

 

 

My name is Officer Cory Brady. I have been working in law enforcement for seven years. Prior to working for the Pittsburg Police Department, I worked for the Antioch Police Department. Currently, I'm assigned as a School Resource Officer at Hillview JHS.

 

I enjoy working with our youth and coach soccer and wrestling. I have a Bachelors degree from Chico State University in Social Science, which I received in 1999. Before my career as a police officer, I was a school teacher for six years. I taught elementary school and middle school students. 
 
My motto is: "Yesterday is the past, tomorrow is the future and today is a gift, that is why it is called the present. Live for the moment and plan for the future."

 

 

 

Officer Curran was born in Mexico City and immigrated to the United States at the age of nine. She is the oldest of five siblings. As a teenager, she was part of a Police Explorer program. In 2002, she graduated from Diablo Valley College (DVC) and began working for the Pittsburg Police Department. Currently, she is enrolled in California Coast University and is studying administration of justice.

 

Officer Curran is married and has four children. You will most likely see her at Rancho Medanos Junior High School where she is assigned as a School Resource Officer (SRO).

 

 

 

 

Officer Manly, a native of the City of Pittsburg, joined the Pittsburg Police Department in July of 2016, after receiving his Undergraduate degree in Sociology and Master's Degree in Leadership from Saint Mary's College.

 

Officer Manly traveled with PUSD on a Sister City trip to Shimonoseki, Japan in August of 2018. He along with Superintendent Schulze, Principal Peyko, and five Pittsburg High School students were introduced to traditional Japanese culture and welcomed by the people of Shimonoseki.

 

 

 

Growing up, Pittsburg has always had a special place in my heart. I was born and raised in Pittsburg and come from a long line of Pittsburg Unified School District educators. My grandmother taught with Pittsburg Unified for well over 20 years and my mother taught at Central Junior High School, leaving a legacy of love and passion for education in all of her scholars.  Watching two of the most important women in my life give their hearts and lives to Pittsburg was nothing less than a motivating force behind my academic years.

 

I attended Stoneman Elementary and Christian Center School until the 8th grade. I later graduated high school from Berean Christian High School in Walnut Creek.  Leaving my community for my high school years only strengthened the pride I had in my hometown. After graduating from Clark Atlanta University, I knew that I needed to come home and make a difference in the community that played a huge role in making me the adult that I am today. 

Teaching at Martin Luther King Jr. Junior High School has been such an awesome and fulfilling experience. I have been able to learn from peers who have also decided to return to Pittsburg in order to serve their community. Most of all, I feel more connected than ever to my community and look forward to continuing to educate here while walking in the footsteps of those who worked to pave the way for me.

 

 

 

 

 

Bobby Belleci is a video productions teacher at Pittsburg High School and Coach for Pittsburg High's Varsity Football Offensive Line.

 

 

Graduating from Pittsburg High School in 1999, I am the 4th generation of PHS graduates from my family. My wife, Tara, also graduated from PHS, and we look forward to our sons Bobby (6) and James (4) being the next in our family history to graduate from Pittsburg High.
 
As child, I attended day care and preschool at Martin Luther King before it became a Junior High School. I went on to attend Highlands Elementary and Hillview Junior High School. Many of my family members have worked or still work for Pittsburg Unified School District as administrators, coaches, teachers, and school board members. From 2010-2012, I also served on PUSD’s School Board.

 

I have always been very passionate about our Pittsburg community and giving back to it, which is what brought me back to Pittsburg High. I followed in my family’s footsteps and started coaching in 2001. I coached with Pittsburg Junior Football League for 4 years, serving 2 years as league president, before being hired in 2004 by Victor Galli, Pittsburg High School Football Coach.

 

 
I always wanted to teach but ended up getting into the family business instead. For 15 years, I worked in the media industry in production, design, and print. When the opportunity to teach at Pittsburg High School arose, I jumped at it.
 
I look forward to spending many years at Pittsburg High School and continuing to have a positive impact on students, both in the classroom and on the football field.

My Background:
My family has lived in Pittsburg since the early-1950’s. My maternal grandfather, Apolio Eclips served in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Camp Stoneman. His wife, Josefa, and his four children: Ile, Fe, Paul and Rebecca, soon joined him from the Philippines. All four children graduated from PHS. I was raised in Pittsburg and attended Highlands Elementary, Hillview Jr. High and graduated from PHS with the Class of 1977. After graduation, I attended San José State University, where I earned B. A. and M. A. degrees in Music, specializing in Composition and Electronic Music. After college, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career as a film composer. While in L. A., I was presented with an opportunity to work on a software product at Apple Computer. The software product ultimately became known as “QuickTime” and thus began my 25-year career in multimedia technology; 19 of which were spent working on every Apple product that made sound or involved music. I spent the last nine years of my tenure at Apple as Senior Project Manager of the music production software called “GarageBand”. Incidentally, I teach my digital recording studio classes using Apple iMac computers, and GarageBand is the software upon which much of the curriculum is based.

Passion for teaching:
Over the course of my tech career, I took great pride in developing highly effective teams. My passion for teaching comes from my family. One could say that education is the “family business”. My family has taught within the Pittsburg Unified School District for over 50 years. My father, Jess H. Reyes, taught Chemistry at PHS in the 1970’s, and served for many years as a member of the School Board. My mother, Ile Reyes, taught at El Pueblo, Village and Foothill; and would cap her career as the first principal of Stoneman Elementary. My sister, Jenny, taught 2nd grade at Willow Cove, Los Medanos and Stoneman, was a literacy coach at Foothill, and a VP at Parkside. My aunt Rebecca O’Rourke taught at Los Medanos and Highlands Elementary; where her daughter Kathy O’Rourke now also teaches. Kathy’s dad, Jim O’Rourke, taught at Hillview Jr. High and Central Jr. High. My aunt Fe Castillo had a long career at Highlands and her son, Edward Castillo, teaches at Black Diamond High School. While my job is to teach audio recording, I feel my most important job is to contribute to the future “employability” of my students; to help develop those traits that will make them valued employees.

 

 

 

 

My name is Daniela Hernandez and I am currently a history teacher at Hillview Junior High. I was raised here in Pittsburg and attended Foothill Elementary, Central Jr. High, and Pittsburg High.

 

Having grown up here, I feel like you often hear that you should give back to your community. As time passed, I knew I wanted to become a teacher. My goal was always to come back home and be able to teach in Pittsburg.

 

Throughout my education, I was inspired to become a teacher through the teachers that I had. I remember going to Ms. Marshack’s classroom and being able to immerse myself in the rainforest in 2nd grade. Reading the novel, The House on Mango Street with Mr. Molina helped me make connections between the book and my life. Ms. Nam guided me when I wrote my personal statement for college applications. And, Mr. Butterfield, helped me learn to enjoy calculus!

After having these teachers in my life, I wanted to be like them and allow my students to really be part of their education and make connections between the material and themselves. I love being able to have conversations with my students about what they can look forward to when they get to the high school, like participating in clubs, sports, and of course, the Pittsburg High School Marching Show Band! 

 

I am proud to say that Pittsburg is a community filled with diversity and it is great to be able to give back to the community that I grew up in. I hope that I can inspire my students the way my teachers inspired me.

 

 

Mrs. Heidi Souders is a mother of two children, a Sunday school teacher, and a graduate of Pittsburg High School (1997). Her family moved to Pittsburg when she was in 3rd grade. She attended Heights Elementary School, Hillview Junior High School, and graduated from PHS in 1997. There’s also a “band connection” she has in common with many other folks in Pittsburg. Playing an instrument wasn’t her thing, but she was active in theater and became a Band Manager in high school. Plus, it was the band connection that led her to her husband, Dustin. The teen romance began when she spotted a new face at band practice. He was friends with kids in the band and one of them brought him to band practice. The two started spending time together and the rest is history. They married in Pittsburg when Heidi was 19. The couple has been together for twenty-three years. By the way, her husband was also born and raised in Pittsburg, in case you were wondering!

Heidi Souders has worked for Pittsburg Unified School District for more than twelve years. Currently, she is the District Secretary for the Student Services Department. She started as a substitute clerk in department and worked her way up into her current role. Mrs. Souders is on the frontlines for parent complaints, runs the home hospital program for the District, handles student records, school transfers, and supports her supervisor, Dr. ReJois Fraiser-Myers, Director of Student Services. Heidi says this position fits her personality well because she likes being behind-the-scenes and has a low-key personality that is adept to handling a variety of personalities and difficult situations. But, she claims the best thing about her job are the success stories. She loves helping kids out and wants to see students graduate. “If there’s one thing I can do for a child, it is give them encouragement or words of wisdom before they leave my office,” said Souders. “I want to make a difference in kids’ lives.” She also mentioned it is the positive stories that keep her coming to work each day and the best part is when students come back and say, “You helped me.”

When you ask Heidi about Pittsburg Pride, Heidi will tell you her son graduated from Pittsburg High and her other son attends Foothill Elementary School. She’s very active in the school community, attends football games, volunteers at events, and helps support the Student Services team. Her focus is on parent engagement and she definitely has a soft spot for comforting parents when they receive news they were not expecting. She says she hears, “I had no idea this was happening with my child” a lot. It is her job to help provide resources for parents and help them get more engaged with their child’s school. She says she loves her job and that “there’s no typical day” in the Student Services department. She’s the go-to person of the department and co-workers often say, “Call Heidi, she will know the answer to that question.” She’s very modest, but you can tell she has pride in her work and loves helping her team with trainings, meeting preparation, student records, and as she says, “making sure things function well.”

My name is Cuauhtemoc Mixcoatl-Martinez, and this is my second year as a teacher in Pittsburg Unified, at Rancho Medanos Jr. High School. Our staff, from administrators and teachers to classified staff, are without a doubt dedicated to the growth and success of our scholars and work tirelessly to foster a great community of learning. I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to teach around the world, in Korea, Russia, and Peru, and finally back to Pittsburg, where I grew up. As a proud Class of ‘04 graduate of PHS, this has made my time at Rancho truly special.

 

Although Pittsburg has changed a lot over the years, it remains a close knit community that embraces its diversity and is rich in cultural wealth. This was apparent, even as a kindergartener, when I was at Village elementary. One of the highlights of the year was going to the Indian Trailer, a trailer filled with Native American regalia, photos, and videos. The teacher brought all of these to life, and something that we’d look forward to every year.  I’ll never forget the first time when our class made Dream Catchers, played with rainticks, or when one of my classmates got a porcupine needle stuck in his ankle. Needless to say, it was an experience that I’m sure everyone who had the opportunity to experience will always cherish.

As a product of the Pittsburg Unified School District, I can say one of my favorite things about our community is our diversity. We all come from a variety of backgrounds, different in every way imaginable. We find each others’ strengths and work together to become the best versions of ourselves. A huge celebration of this is at the MultiCultural Assembly at the CAB at Pitt High. I'm also proud that our diversity is embraced with the District's Wellness Committee, as we provide social gatherings to build community through healthy living.

 

I love working at Martin Luther King, Jr. Junior High School because our Tiger Team radiates excitement! My fellow teachers and staff are all amazing people that share their personal passions with our scholars through their classes and clubs. I’m able to extend my enthusiasm for sustainability with the Environmental Club, my thirst for the outdoors by hiking with the Adventure Club, and exploring curiosities during our STEAM Festival. Beyond the typical school day and activities, I’m always delighted.

 

 

 

Ms. Pineda has worked for Pittsburg Unified School District for thirty-one years. When asked how she became an Early Literacy Coach, she said, “I fell into it by accident in 2009.” Her response made me curious. But, I soon understood her journey was much more than an accident.

Linda began her teaching career in 1979 in a little town outside of Bakersfield, CA. After two years, she was burned out and decided to leave the classroom. After swearing she’d never go back, a relocation to the Bay Area made her change her mind. In 1986, she had a craving to be back in the classroom and started substitute teaching in Pittsburg. Her time as a substitute opened the door for a full-time teaching position within three months at Pittsburg Unified. She claimed Pittsburg is unique and she’s never looked back, “Not a day I didn’t want to be here,” is what she told me.
 
Like many people I’ve interviewed, Linda says she loves the diversity of the Pittsburg community, the closeness of the community, and says it feels good being here. She taught mostly 5th grade at Foothill Elementary (1986-1990) and at Stoneman Elementary School (1990 – 2009). However, one thing kept frustrating her in the classroom…reading. She says she kept seeing 5th graders that couldn’t read.

In 2009, her principal at the time recognized a hidden talent of Linda’s and asked if she would become an Early Literacy Coach for Stoneman Elementary and focus on using Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills “DIBELS” (a set of measures for assessing early literacy) for the upper grades. “Just try it out for one year,” she was told. At first she said, “No….”, but her arm was twisted and she jumped out of the classroom and into the new role. It was a blessing in disguise because Linda says she was hooked after just one year in her position. “When I was a teacher, I could only help thirty-four kids,” said Pineda. “Now, I can help change the outcome for all kids. If we build the foundation correctly, we can change kids’ lives.” The first year focused on assessing students and reporting. The second year in her role, she had a new principal, Shelley Velasco, who paid close attention to Linda and her reading focus. In 2011, Mrs. Velasco saw firsthand the changes happening with students because of Ms. Pineda, the use of DIBELS, and of course, the teachers. Test scores indicated reading rates for the school were increasing!

Using DIBELS was helping Linda make a difference in reading scores of students at Stoneman Elementary School because DIBELS uncovered what focus areas children needed to succeed in reading. Individualized plans are created for each student struggling with reading, filling gaps in a student’s reading foundation and targeting specific needs. Tools and resources are available for the students, teachers, and parents to help children improve and build confidence in reading. The use of DIBELS not only helps determine what interventions are needed for reading, it also helps Linda predict future reading test scores. Therefore, her student plan doesn’t just focus on the “now,” it focuses on the future. Interventions are put in place to change the outcome of predictions. In 2013, Ms. Pineda was sent to DIBELS training, preparing her to become the District Trainer/Mentor, supporting Literacy Coaches throughout PUSD. In the 2015/2016 school year, Early Literacy became a key focus for Pittsburg Unified School District and Literacy Coaches were hired at elementary schools. In the 2016/2017 school year, PUSD made a commitment to make full-time Literacy Coaches a priority at all of the elementary schools. Currently, Linda is a coach at Stoneman Elementary and is also the District’s Literacy Mentor.

 

Fruits of Linda’s labor are now spreading throughout Pittsburg Unified School District. She loves her team and says they meet once a week for a two-hour meeting where they discuss data, plans, problem solving, equity, new ideas, and support each other. At each elementary school site, Early Literacy Coaches assess students, provide demonstration lessons, resources, instructional strategies, and professional development for teachers. They focus on universal access, data interpretation, overview of DIBELS, fluency and comprehension, new teachers, and afterschool help for students. The vision of the Early Literacy focus is to move children up the ladder in improving their reading skills. “Every child matters,” said Linda. “We have to do our best for each one. We owe it to them. That’s why we are here. It is an investment in our community.”

I asked Linda if she had any success stories to share and she immediately said “Derrick” (name changed to protect identity of the child). Derrick struggled to read in kindergarten and 1st grade. He left 1st grade as a non-reader and in the beginning of 2nd grade he was reading about twelve words per minute. With the help of Ms. Pineda working with the teachers to set up and implement interventions, monitoring his progress, and adjusting interventions as needed, Derrick left 2nd grade reading sixty words per minute. In 3rd grade, he became an avid reader and his comprehension improved dramatically. He is now at eighty words per minute and is above his reading cut-point. Linda says his results are not uncommon. She sees this over and over again.  Linda points out though, that she is just the coach, and it is the dedication of the teachers that makes the difference. Her most favorite part of her job happens during a certain moment a child develops confidence. “You can see it in a child’s eye when things click,” she said. “Sometimes they even surprise themselves when they sit down and read effortlessly.”

At the end of our interview, I asked if Ms. Pineda had any reading advice for parents. Here are four things she mentioned: read to your kids, encourage your child to read early, talk to his or her teacher; stay on top of things, and figure out what your kids like to read. She says she didn’t realize her love for non-fiction until college. Fiction never really floated her boat, but once she started reading non-fiction she couldn’t get enough. “Figure out your child’s favorite genre and what makes reading come alive for them,” said Linda.

Joe Sanchez is another OG in Pittsburg (OG stands for “original”). He was born and raised in the small community of West Pittsburg and has been working for Pittsburg Unified School District for nearly 30 years. Yes, I just said “West Pittsburg.” I had to be schooled on where West Pittsburg was located as I’m not an OG like Joe. He told me West Pittsburg was renamed Bay Point. My curiosity took me to Wikipedia where I learned Bay Point has the same zip code as the District Office, which is 94565. I’m sure there’s more to the story of West Pittsburg and Bay Point, but let’s get back to Joe.

 

Looking at Joe, it was hard for me to believe he’s worked for PUSD for 30 years. He sure doesn’t look old enough to have 30 years on his career belt, but I’m not going to Human Resources to investigate. I’m sure his co-workers are enough to vouch for him! All kidding aside, Joe graduated from Pacific High School in 1975. Again, I told him I hadn’t heard of Pacifica High School and he replied, “It closed in 1976.”

 

After graduation, Joe attended Los Medanos College for two years and worked at the Steel Mill, but the layoffs he experienced made him look for a job that was more stable. In 1987, Joe was hired as a custodian at Pittsburg High School and mainly worked in the gyms. He remembers fondly working with Ms. Mattson and working around high school students who referred to him as, “Papa Joe” (That made me chuckle). In 1998, Joe changed jobs and became part of the Grounds Crew. What does that entail? He began rattling off, “groundskeeper, equipment operator, lawn mower, water break fixer, football fields maintenance, sprinkler systems expert, herbicides technician, tree trimmer, weed controller, roof gutter cleaner, and many other duties that fall under “other duties as assigned.” 

 

From 1998 until now, he’s stayed part of the Grounds Crew which consists of Luis, Sal, Rich, Mike, Janice, and Joe. They usually team up into groups of three to get all their duties done each day at sites throughout the District. Four days a week, you will likely see Joe on a mower at one of the schools because he mows lawns at ALL of our schools. The younger kids are his favorite because they still get a kick out of lawn mowers (just like dump trucks, mail trucks, and UPS trucks), so he waves at them if he sees a little one who’s interested in his machinery. Thirty years at PUSD and he claims he still enjoys what he does each day and he loves being around people.

 

 

When asked why he has pride for his job, it is compliments that keep him going. “What’s really neat is when a parent or administrator says, ‘That lawn looks great.’ Makes you want to do more. I take pride in my work because that’s what I was taught to do,” said Joe. Kudos also go to Mike Rodriquez and Joe exclaimed, “He has taught me a lot!” The team work involved with his job is what makes him come to work each day and he says communication makes everything a lot easier. However, Mike does have to communicate with Joe about vacation time…because Joe says he forgets to take his vacation time! (When he told me that, I did laugh out loud). 

 

When Joe isn’t at work, he visits car shows, the downtown, community functions, music, and bocce ball at Buchannan Park. He was once part of the “chain gang” on Friday nights too. I wasn’t familiar with the “chain gang” in Pittsburg. But, he explained that four people help measure yards at home football games. For seven years, he spent Friday nights on the football field for home games before moving on to other interests. Additionally, for the last fourteen years, he’s also been active in his union, California School Employees Association, Chapter 44.

 

Even though he’s no longer on the football field, Joe said Pittsburg High School football and the Marching Show Band give him Pittsburg pride. He feels the City of Pittsburg has made a “complete turnaround” and he likes the small town feel of the community

 

 

 

The question was given to me, do you have Pittsburg Pride? My response was, “absolutely and now let me tell you how my journey began.”
I moved to Pittsburg in 1978 and attended Pittsburg schools from pre-K through high school. First, I attended Martin Luther King Jr. Preschool. Then, I went on to Highlands Elementary. Central Jr. High is where I spent my junior high school years. In 1994, I graduated from Pittsburg High School and soon after enrolled in Los Medanos Community College (LMC).

As I was attending LMC, I needed a part-time job and was told about a position with Pittsburg Unified School District. My first thought was WOW! I get to work with children, how awesome is that? At that time, the transportation department was hiring bus attendants, and I thought, why not give it a try? During the time I was a bus attendant, oh boy, I worked with a wide range of children, mainly children with special needs. My heart was in it and I enjoyed it. I told my parents, “I am going to keep my Job with Pittsburg Unified School District.”

During my time as a bus attendant, Marianne Solis came to me and said, “How would you like to become a bus driver?” My first thought was, “Oh no, there’s no way I can drive a 40 foot vehicle!” But, lo and behold, there I was three months later with a license to drive a school bus! At the time, I was only 18 years old and here I am now, still working in the transportation department. For 21 years, I have been working for PUSD. During my 18 years as a bus driver, I enjoy driving around Pittsburg and getting to know a lot of students and families. Yes, I do call the Pittsburg students “my students.” I get so excited when see former and current students while attending the Friday night football games (Go Pirates!), Off the Grid, and the Seafood Festival. It is pure joy to see them run up to me and say, “Hi Ms. Robyn” and give me a hug. It truly shows me that I have impacted their life.

 

In 2015, I received my School Bus Driver Instructor certification from the California Department of Education. I really enjoy training others on how to drive school buses.  Given the opportunity to attend the bus trainer academy, I promised myself I would continue to ensure the safety and security of students in Pittsburg.

 

My two children currently attend schools in Pittsburg and I’m proud to be a parent volunteer. Additionally, I am so happy to have the opportunity to continue my career at Pittsburg Unified School District, and I’m proud of my city, Pittsburg!

 

 

 

My Pittsburg Pride began as young as kindergarten! I spent my K – 5 years at Village Elementary School. Village has since been replaced by Willow Cove Elementary. After Village, I moved on to Central Jr. High. Joe Arenivar may be a School Board member now, but back in the mid-80’s he was my vice Principal and Hillview’s Principal Heidi Leber and I were in Leadership together! Like most people in our community I spent my last 4 years in K-12 at Pitt High. Anthony Molina may have been two years my junior during high school, but I remember him well alongside fellow cheerleader Michael Haase, a teacher at Highlands.

 

 

When it came time for my children to go to school here I knew I wanted to do everything I could to make a positive impact in our district, both for their sake and the community’s. The wonderful staff at Willow Cove Elementary encouraged me to apply for an open Parent Coordinator position-a perfect fit for me, as I had been an active parent volunteer at the school for years. I worked at Willow Cove for about four years before moving on to Central Jr. High as an Attendance Clerk. After Central closed, I moved back to Willow Cove for a year before making my way to Rancho Medanos Jr. High where I currently serve as the Principal’s Secretary.

 

 

I am in love with my community. My position means so much more than moving documents around on a desk. The students in our district have my heart. I am always so taken aback when they want to sit in my office and spend their lunch time with me or stop in to say hello. They are just so giving and they make me smile. I see every exchange as an opportunity to help mold these children into caring adults who will be able to take care of our community when I am no longer able to do so. Their parents, grandparents and guardians have also been extremely kind and generous to me, many of whom, have become close friends of mine.
My next milestone is to work at the High School. I want to be able to say that I’ve worked at every school that I’ve attended-but that comes later. There is so much more that I have to accomplish at the Jr. High level.

 

To this day I live in Pittsburg with my husband, Eric. We have three beautiful children: Our oldest son Eric is a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps; our daughter Summer completed her degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences at Los Medanos College; and our youngest son Nick is entering his third year at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
It’s not uncommon to see me at the town car shows, Off the Grid or other community events. More importantly, I continue to cheer for our district’s kids on Friday nights at Pirate stadium, and I always keep an eye out for our college athletes by attending their games when possible.

Being raised, living and working in Pittsburg continues to be an incredibly rewarding experience. I can’t imagine growing up in a more wonderful community, and I plan to live here and support our children for many years to come.

 

My journey with Pittsburg Pride began as a student teacher in Mrs. Janice Fornwald’s third grade class at Highlands Elementary during the 1980/81 school year. I could not have started in a better place. Not only was Mrs. Fornwald an excellent mentor teacher, she passed along all of her stories about growing up in Pittsburg. She was a lifelong resident and her father opened one of the very first stores in town in the early 1900’s. Her husband, Mr. Clarence Fornwald was the one of the very first band teachers at Pittsburg High School. My indoctrination into the community of Pittsburg had begun.

 

I was hired as a third grade teacher the very next year by the principal at Highlands, Bernie Krieg. It was from Mr. Krieg that I got some of the best advice I have ever received. He said, “When you make a mistake, (and you will make lots of them), make it on behalf of the child every time.” He was absolutely correct about my making countless mistakes along the way. But one of the things that I have learned about the kids in our community is that when they know you respect and care about them, they are very forgiving and they are very resilient. Our kids are smart, passionate and they are incredibly talented. They want desperately to be successful. When they are loved, supported and encouraged, they are capable of almost anything. They will give you everything that they have.

 

 

For the next 18 years, I continued teaching at Highlands Elementary. At the same time, I served as the head freshman football coach at Pittsburg High for 12 seasons. When you talk about pride in Pittsburg, Friday nights are the personification of what it means to be a Pirate. Young and old alike are wearing their orange and black and cheering on the latest version of the Pirate football team. In the bleachers, you can hear the ‘56, ‘67 or ‘72 graduates talking about their experiences playing for the Pittsburg High Pirates like it was yesterday. At halftime, our Marching Show Band reminds everyone in the stadium why they are called the “Pride of Pittsburg”. Opposing team fans comment all the time that they love coming to Pittsburg because they know they will be treated to a great game and an incredible halftime show in one of the finest venues in the state.

 

After leaving the classroom, I have served PUSD as an administrator. I have been an elementary vice principal (1999/2000), an assistant principal at the high school (2000/01), principal at Pittsburg High (2001/04), principal at Highlands Elementary (2004/10) and finally in my current position as Coordinator of Special Projects (2010/present). In my current assignment, I oversee the Early Childhood Education program and Independent Studies. I coordinate our district textbook adoptions and our emergency response programs. But I think the most important job I have in my travels around the district is to tell others the stories about where we have come from and how we have gotten here.

I am in awe at some of the remarkable things that many of my former students have accomplished in life. I have had the privilege of teaching, coaching or being the administrator of teachers, published authors, professional athletes, attorneys, barbers, nurses, construction workers, stay at home moms, bank tellers and just recently the newest principal at Hillview Junior High. I am very proud indeed that I have had the opportunity to play even a small part in their success.

 

This summer my wife, Laurey and I are celebrating 40 years of marriage. She, along with our three children (and now our six grandchildren) have had to listen to my stories of Pittsburg for the past 37 years. They have sacrificed a lot over the years so that I could work in the best place I know.

 

 

 

Mike Rodriquez was born and raised in Pittsburg, California. He graduated in 1970 and still meets up with high school friends once a month at the Country Skillet where they share stories about football, Westside Story, the Car Show, family, and memories of school days. He says he grew up in a time where everybody loved everybody…and they really cared about each other. The bonds he made in high school have carried him through his adult life and he claims, “Pitt Pride is always going to be in my heart.”

 

Mike’s Dad, “Johnny Rod,” was a pipefitter by trade and worked at the Steel Mill throughout his 30+ year career, instilling a strong work ethic and family focused attitude into his son. These attributes along with a giving heart are characteristics Mike remembers fondly as he talks about the influence his father has had on his life. Family comes first and that’s what has kept Rodriquez at Pittsburg Unified School District for more than 45 years. In 1972 Mike was hired in the maintenance department and quickly worked his way up from custodian at Parkside Elementary to horticulturalist at Heights Elementary to Supervisor of the Maintenance Department…all in a span of about four years! The lure of a higher paying job at the Steel Mill tugged him away for about three years; however, after being laid off and experiencing the feeling of job instability while trying to provide for a young family, he returned to PUSD in 1981. Coming back was less money and he had to start at the bottom again, working as a custodian at Hillview Junior High School…but it was a stable job and that’s what he needed for his family.

 

 

My Pittsburg Pride story started in August 1990 when I arrived to Pittsburg, California from Lima, Peru. After a week of being in Pittsburg, I enrolled in Pittsburg Adult Education Center (PAEC). I attended morning and evening classes. The learning environment was inviting and encouraging. PAEC helped me to build the foundation to learn a second language, which was crucial in my academic career in this country.

 

 

After I attended PAEC, I went to Los Medanos College where I received my Associate Degree in Liberal Arts. Since then, I have worked in the educational field in different capacities. My first job was as a bilingual teacher aide in 1992 for Pittsburg Unified School District. Later on, I worked as an early childhood teacher at the Child Care Center at Los Medanos College. After a couple of years, I was promoted to Director of the center. While working at the college, I was able to revalidate my bachelor degree from my homeland, Peru, and after taking few more classes I obtained my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at Cal State Hayward. I also hold a Master of Curriculum Development from Chapman University.