Behind the scenes

Originally from El Salvador, Jose Diaz Rosa’s childhood was cut short due to the Salvadoran Civil War from 1979 to 1992. At the age of 14, long before being a part of the West High custodial staff, he served in the Salvadoran army. “It was kind of traumatizing, growing up in an environment like that,” Diaz Rosa said. “It can make you a man real quick.” After serving in the army, Diaz R...

West High building substitute Quintin Lenti doesn’t like to conform. Whether in music or teaching, they embrace an unconventional approach to each of their passions. Lenti grew up in Washington, playing the piano. “I did [classical piano] for a while, but I never played it the same way twice,” Lenti said. “I play different notes, different rhythms … everything is different every single t...

West alum Eric Kim ’14 has been a paraeducator at West for the last two years.  To him, being a paraeducator isn’t simply about teaching. Kim works through problems with students step by step, understanding that patience is the most important part of his job.  “You have to get a good connection. I have to try hard to get to know that person before I help,” Kim said. “Otherwise, it...

Brittany McConnell ’00 has been a guidance office secretary at West for just over one year. For students, McConnell is a new presence at the school, but for West — and many other staff members — she’s a familiar face.  “Being [at West] now, I still feel that welcoming, family feel, which I adore,” McConnell said.  McConnell was classmates with Maureen Head, coached by Kay DiLeo and taught Spanish...