Driven by his passion for youth development and helping others, Jose Santana uses his own life experiences to connect with 49ers Academy students and families uniquely. Born and raised in East Palo Alto, Jose knows that working with youth is his calling and gives him purpose. He has worked with students in the East Palo community since 2016. Jose has a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications; Media Studies and earned his Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.

Fun Fact: Jose was the 2nd Valedictorian in the history of the 49ers Academy!

Armando has always been passionate about helping students succeed. As a college student, he gained experience working with middle school students, helping them prepare for the transition to high school. Armando continues to use his experience and expertise to help our students overcome the challenges they face in and out of the classroom. Armando is a first-generation college graduate from Sonoma State University with a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management.

Fun Fact: Armando is the biggest 49ers fan and loves to collect 49ers memorabilia and attend 49ers games.

Jenny is an East Palo native and first-generation college graduate. Driven by her desire to be a role model for students in her hometown, Jenny is motivated to help students succeed in their education and beyond. She graduated from Sonoma State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications Studies with a minor in Spanish. Jenny is also has a Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance.

Fun Fact: Jenny loves spending time with her family; she has two dogs and loves the outdoors.

Maria is a first-generation Mexican American who grew up in East Palo Alto. Coming from a family of educators and believers in social justice, Maria hopes to inspire others in her community, just as her teachers inspired her. She graduated from De Anza College and has worked in education for ten years.

Fun Fact: Maria was a young teen when she got her first job in the Ravenswood City School District. She taught night school to parents who were learning how to speak English.

Losaline is a proud alumna of the 49ers Academy program. She is so thankful for the opportunities that the 49ers Academy gave her and she’s looking forward to giving back to her community. Losaline grew up in East Palo Alto and is deeply rooted in her Tongan culture. She has a deep knowledge and understanding of the East Palo Alto community and brings experience working for other youth organizations. Losaline has a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from Southern Virginia University.

Fun Fact: Losaline speaks Georgian.

Michelle is a proud Latina. Driven by her passion for making a positive impact in people’s lives, Michelle is eager to use her experience in providing youth with comprehensive educational, behavioral, community and social skills to support our students in accomplishing their goals. She graduated from CSU East Bay with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and is CPR certified.

Fun Fact: Michelle’s favorite hobby is going to the gym! 

Growing up in East Palo Alto, the school was always a safe haven for Antonia. Her passion for education and working with children came from positive learning experiences with her teacher in the fourth grade. Over the past decade, she has worked with youth in after-school programs in East Palo Alto. Her education and life experiences have shaped her life, and with empathy, proudly interacts with students and families in the East Palo Alto community.

Antonia's goals are to be a positive role model, provide a safe, welcoming environment, and to be able to build positive relationships with the students and their families. She is beyond excited to continue working with the youth of East Palo Alto as a team member of the 49ers Academy.

Fun Fact: Anotina's first job was at the same elementary school that I attended.

A 49ers Academy program alumna, Miriam is passionate about giving youth what the Academy provided for her. Miriam came to East Palo Alto in 2001 after attending school in Michoacan, Mexico, from 1st-5th grade. Miriam graduated from Eastside College Prep and earned her Bachelor's degree in Anthropology from Bryn Mawr College. She returned to East Palo Alto and started her career at the 49ers Academy. Miriam founded our High School Program and leveraged her skills and experience to advocate for and empower our students and their families.

Fun Fact: Miriam loves to spend time with her family and 2-year-old dog, Rosie.

As an East Palo Alto native, Pablo understands the struggles students face. His life experiences motivate him to advocate for and support our students. He is driven to provide students with guidance and support as they plan for their future, something he wishes he had when he was in high school. He believes that education is a powerful way to create change for students and the community. Pablo is currently attending Cañada College.

Fun Fact: Pablo likes to collect vinyls of his favorite albums.