SAN JOSE, CALIF – Cesar Juarez Ruiz, a dedicated high school teacher with nine years of experience, is making a profound impact on his students both inside and outside the classroom. 

Born in Mexico in the 1980s, Juarez’s journey into education and activism was inspired by a deep passion for Mexican American history and a commitment to social justice. 

Juarez’s childhood in Mexico was marked by the presence of his mother and older brother, as his father had moved to the United States when he was very young. Despite facing challenges, the family maintained a middle-class lifestyle, providing him with essential comforts and educational opportunities. Juarez’s early education in a private school laid the foundation for his future academic pursuits. 

Juarez’s path towards becoming a high school teacher began during his time at community college. He enrolled in a Mexican American history class taught by Dr. Spinosa, a professor who would become his mentor. The class sparked Juarez’s curiosity about his own heritage and the lack of representation of Mexican American history in mainstream education. 

After several eye-opening sessions, Juarez approached Dr. Spinosa with a question: “Why didn’t I learn this history in high school?” The professor’s response was a turning point in Juarez’s life. Dr. Spinosa explained that the absence of Mexican American history education perpetuates disempowerment within the community, emphasizing the need for change. 

Motivated by Mr. Spinosa’s challenge, Juarez went on a mission to bring Mexican American history and a deeper understanding of cultural heritage to high school students. He decided to become a high school teacher, hoping to empower his students with knowledge that resonated with their identities. 

Juarez’s teaching philosophy prioritizes skills over content. “My teaching philosophy is to make accessible content which is very important. The content is important but the skills are what matter the most. Being able to read, write, and listen so you can utilize the content to think. Focus on the skills, but use the content of the lessons of the class to help students with their skills, so they can succeed in college.” By developing these skills, he believes his students can apply their knowledge effectively, which would make them more successful in the future.

In his classroom, Juarez starts each day with an “In Lak’ech” ritual. This tradition, rooted in Mexican American culture, reinforces the idea that individuals are part of a larger community. By fostering this sense of belonging, Juarez encourages his students to contribute positively to their community and to each other’s growth. 

“We could assume that every single student comes from the same type of background, which they’re there to learn. But sometimes students bring whatever is going on with their family to their school, so we have to understand that students aren’t ready to be students, so understanding students is important.” Recognizing that students come from diverse backgrounds and may face personal challenges, he emphasizes the need for empathy and support. By understanding the unique circumstances of each student, teachers can create a more inclusive and nurturing learning environment. 

Beyond teaching, Juarez has a passion for collecting Pokémon cards and enjoys watching baseball. He openly shares his values with his students, emphasizing his bias towards human rights and social justice. He encourages students with opposing views to engage in meaningful discussions, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued.  

In 2014, Juarez participated in a protest against the deportation of immigrants, putting himself at risk as an undocumented individual. He chose to engage in civil disobedience to draw attention to the injustices faced by immigrants and their families. His willingness to take such a risk exemplifies his dedication to the causes he holds dear. 

Juarez’s ultimate goal is to inspire his students to give back to their communities and become passionate advocates for social change. He hopes that his dedication to education and activism will serve as a catalyst for his students’ own journeys toward making a positive impact on the world. Juarez Ruiz’s story is a testament to the power of education and activism in shaping lives and communities. 

Contact Information

Classroom: 408 347 5783

Email: juarezc@esuhsd.org