High school counselor recognized

Oralia Ventura and the Ventura family

El Cajon Valley High School’s Oralia Ventura was recognized by the Grossmont Union High School District as “School Counselor of the Year” on Feb. 3. GUHSD Governing Board Trustee Dr. Gary C. Woods and Superintendent Theresa Kemper surprised Ventura with the announcement in honor of National School Counselor Week. Ventura’s colleagues and family were all part of the surprise announcement.

Ventura has served as a counselor at GUSHD since 2008, having also worked at Monte Vista High School.

“I love to help (kids and families) not only get through high school, but also to help them learn about life after high school. I love El Cajon Valley High School. It’s a diverse group of students and it’s a place where you see kids that are very resilient,” said Ventura in a press release.

Counselor of the Year award is selected by a panel of GUHSD teachers and administrators who review nominations throughout the District.

“Oralia Ventura is a phenomenal counselor and we are privileged to have her at ECVHS,” said Assistant Principal Shannon Foster. “She is not only a fierce advocate for the students in her caseload, but for all students on our campus.”