Counselor Moves to a Classroom
After working two years as the city’s Community Service Program counselor, Jesse Gutierrez is leaving to pursue a career in teaching.
Gutierrez worked to bring local schools, law enforcement and the community together to provide programs to keep children out of trouble.
“This job really was the best experience anyone could have,” Gutierrez, 26, said. “I’m going to miss the sheriff, working with the San Juan Community Task Force, community and especially the kids.”
Sheriff’s Lt. Paul Sullivan credits Gutierrez with creating or improving many programs, including bilingual parenting classes, a summer camp at the beach and community cleanup projects for children.
“He’s done an outstanding job in building a rapport not only with the kids but the parents,” Lt. Sullivan said.
Starting Sept. 8, Gutierrez will be teaching fourth grade at Orange Grove Elementary School in Whittier, which is near his home. He also plans to attend law school.
The City Council Tuesday will honor Gutierrez with a community service award for his work in San Juan Capistrano.
“If I have changed one or two kids, I think I have succeeded,” Gutierrez said.
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