20 Sep Then…And Now: SET High Jessica Romero
If Ms. Romero, Director of Special Education and School Psychologist for the School for Entrepreneurship and Technology (SET High), could have used her favorite imagined superpower to see into the future – what would her high school self think of herself now?
Would she be confused as to how she could choose oatmeal and spinach scrambles over delicious muffins? Or would she just be relieved that she’s not still working at Del Taco? She would definitely be pretty excited to see that she is a teacher, just as she dreamed as a child.
We sure are glad she’s here to educate our students about the importance of mental health at our tuition-free 9th-12th grade California Distinguished School. Read more about who Ms. Romero was back in high school and who she is today.
What career did you want to pursue when you were in high school?
I wanted to be a teacher.
Did you have any after-school and/or summer jobs while in high school?
I worked at Del Taco – the hardest job I have ever had!
What school activities were you involved with in high-school?
I played the flute in band and I was part of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) club.
What music did you love listening to in high school? Now?
I loved bands/artists such as Nirvana, 311, Guns and Roses, and Madonna.
Did you attend any memorable concerts in high school?
311 was my first concert!
What was your go-to after school snack in high school? What about now?
Whatever was around.
What did you eat for lunch in high school? What about now?
I usually bought junk food for lunch such as muffins, burritos or other packaged foods.
What was your favorite class in high school? What class would you like to take now at SET?
I loved my psychology class with Ms. Lachey. She was my favorite teacher in high school. She was just so cool and caring. I also loved algebra. I loved these classes because I loved the teachers and I knew they cared for me.
I would love to take our psychology class, Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, Strength of Mind and Body, and Spanish. (Get our full list of engaging classes here.)
How did you get around in high school? How do you get around now?
Walked everywhere, rode my bike and took the city bus. At 16 I had a beat up little truck that was a hand-me-down. Now I drive and walk whenever I can.
What do you love about SET- what sets it apart from other schools?
SET is a safe place for students to express themselves, take academic risks and explore their passion. (Mrs. Romero helps create our welcoming campus as she coaches the Peer Counseling club at SET.)
And finally, what is the best compliment that you have received?
My 8 year old niece told me that I am a big kid!
At our WASC-accredited school, we take our academics as seriously as we take our mental health and well-being. Join our small school community where connections matter– we’re enrolling now!
About SET High
SET High offers each student individual attention from multi-talented, highly qualified teachers. Students build a healthy camaraderie with classmates inside an intellectually rigorous environment that brings out their talents and personality, helping them develop their individual character and direction in life. With a wide variety of electives, flexible scheduling, dual enrollment college classes and more — our students regularly exceed their academic and personal expectations. Enroll now.