From running around the house chasing a two-year-old son to teaching photography, animation, advanced art, and AP Art, VAPA teacher Justin Diaz does it all.

Diaz began his teaching career at El Rancho in 2005. He enjoys pushing his students to improve. If you don’t see Diaz at the Ranch, you might find him bouldering, watching movies, or listening to music. Sitting in his classroom, you will always find music playing and students’ work hanging on the walls.

Diaz says he got into teaching because, “I had some good teachers in high school and college, which made me want to share what I learned and knew.” Diaz talked about how he feels about being here for 19 years. The comfort level, getting to know each student in his class, and seeing the school’s progress are what he likes the most. Diaz went on to tell me how much he has improved how he runs his class. The best part of being around for 19 years is seeing everything around you grow. 

Being able to create a teaching style and learn how to connect to the students is what Diaz strives to do every day. June Cervantes, a senior, says, “Mr. Diaz gets me thinking about how I could make my art better.- he makes me laugh, and he’s an ok computer.” Diaz’s favorite album is Radiohead’s third studio album, “OK Computer.” released May 21, 1997. Diaz loves music and has multiple discussions with students about their musical tastes, making them think outside the box of their beliefs. Some people don’t understand Diaz’s humor, but Senior Suleyma Galindo says, “Although he presents himself as a serious and cold person, when you really get to know him, he’s a funny, thoughtful, and awkward person. Plus, at times, he can get carried away with his sarcastic jokes, but as a heavy jokester myself, I find them hilarious, and other classmates can agree too.” Galindo continued to talk about what she liked about the classroom itself. “To me, his class helps me recharge during the school hours. After attending my 0 and 1st-hour classes, I tend to be tired out, but once I step into his classroom during 2nd hour or 3rd period, I know I am gonna have a good time because while I create my art pieces, I can talk to my art girls who can give me advice on my artwork and joke around with, rising my mood from tiredness to productive.” when I asked Diaz what he liked about the ranch he said “My students, as I was one” finding out Diaz is an alumni. He also told me he was in the band in high school. 

Outside of the ranch, watching movies is one of Diaz’s go-to things to do with his family. He said, “Metropolitan” (a 1990 film) is his favorite movie. He’s also interested in sports, such as basketball. His favorite team is the Lakers. 

When asked if he had any shoutouts or last words, Daiz said, “I would like to shoutout- pretty much all of my students, also my wife who is here.”