Raised in East San Jose, Johnny spent his youth struggling through school. From being held back in kindergarten, to dropping out of high school his senior year, his connection to education was never enough to help him see his own value and potential. At 20 years old he found his passion for film making, and becoming an artist turned him into a business owner, and being a business owner gave him the confidence to pursue teaching the craft that he fell in love with. Now Johnny is a teacher at New Valley Continuation High School in Santa Clara where he supports students whose struggles mirror the same life experiences that took him off track. Teaching is his passion, and giving back, and empowering all young people has become his mission. In addition to being a classroom teacher, Johnny is a proud father and husband, his daughter is in kindergarten at Holly Oak Elementary, and will be a part of Evergreen Elementary School District for the next 8 years.