Student Spotlight: Jacella

The Juvenile Court and Community Schools student representative on the San Diego County Board of Education for October was Jacella, a senior at Monarch School.

Jacella was selected because of her positive nature, leadership qualities, and ability to persevere through hard times.

“What makes Jacella truly remarkable is not only where she is headed but it’s the light she shines right now,” said Ruben Baeza, Monarch School principal. “Every day she inspires us to continue moving forward, to stay hopeful, and believe in the unstoppable power of perseverance.”

Baeza shared that Jacella consistently shows up to class with a bright attitude and an eagerness to learn. She values building strong relationships with both her teachers and her peers and is always willing to offer a helping hand.

Growing up in a military family has given her respect for the discipline and opportunities the military provides, which has inspired Jacella to set her sights on a future with the Air Force.

While at Monarch, she has discovered a true passion for food, recently participating in the pre-apprenticeship program, with her and her team earning best dish and best uniform cook design.

At the Board of Education meeting, Jacella thanked her family as well as the teachers at Monarch, who she said helped not only educate her but also shape her into a competent student whose mindset about education has been profoundly impacted.

“I’m here today because of the real-world and essential life skills I’ve learned in these classrooms. I am grateful to everyone who put effort into teaching me and guiding me in the right pathway to becoming a young adult with many opportunities in life.”

Jacella encourages other JCCS students take advantage of their high school years.

“School can be a way out of adversity by providing you many resources and opportunities,” she said. “High school is a transformative experience that lays the groundwork for a brighter future.”

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.