About Me:

Hello students and families! My name is Angela Bautista, and I'm the school counselor for Independent Study. I have experience working with students ranging from K-12 to first-generation college students. I started my school counseling career in Denver, CO, but I was born and raised in Santa Paula. I am excited to be back and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the community that helped educate me. I enjoy working collaboratively with parents/guardians, teachers, and administrators to identify barriers to learning and develop strategies to better support students and their needs. I am passionate about eliminating barriers, providing equitable support, creating a safe and positive environment, and assisting students in discovering who they are by engaging in meaningful career conversations and providing social and emotional support. I take pride in building relationships with students to ensure that I care not only about their academic performance but also about them as a person. I believe everyone is unique and deserves that chance to live up to their potential. I aim to provide equal opportunity and support to guide students through academic, social, and personal growth, using creativity and empathy to increase their readiness for learning and future success. 

Services:

Individual Counseling, Small Groups, Career and College Exploration, Academic Support, Social and Emotional Learning, Peer Relationships, Family Support, Classroom Lessons, Conflict Resolution, Organization, Time Management, Study Skills, Problem Solving, Decision Making, Self-Esteem Building, and much more!

Education:

In May of 2012, I graduated with my A.A. in General Education from Ventura College. I then transferred to California State University, Chico, and graduated with my B.A. in Sociology and a Minor in Child Development in May 2015. Finally, in December 2019, I received my Master's degree in Counseling and Career Development with an Emphasis in School Counseling from Colorado State University, Fort Collins. 

Fun Fact:

I tried out for the UCA All-Star Cheer Team during my senior year of high school. Those who make the team have an opportunity to go to London and perform in the Varsity Spirit Parade during New Year's. I made the team, and my family helped me fundraise money to go to London and perform in the New Year's Parade.

When I am not working, you can find me hiking, exploring national parks/monuments, or spending time with my dog.

This school year marks my 26th year of teaching. I have had the privilege in my career to teach students at every grade level in K-12.  This is my 4th year teaching at the K-2 grade level and my 2nd year at the Santa Paula Unified. School District. 

I graduated from California State University at Northridge with a B.A. in Liberal Studies. At Northridge, I earned a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, as well as a Single Subject Credential in English. 

My mom always said that I was a born teacher. I would line up my brother, sister, barbies and dolls, and pretend to teach them for hours!  While my brother and sister  complained about summer coming to an end, I was dreaming of school supplies and binders in every color!

In my role as a teacher, I believe that I owe it to my students, as well as their families, to bring consistency, diligence, and warmth to my classroom… Hoping to ultimately inspire and encourage such traits in my students as well. 

My years of experience have shown me that the most successful students are a product of a strong teacher and parent partnership. It is even more vital in the independent study program. 

One of my favorite things about teaching is that no two days, or two students, are ever the same ! I find it an endlessly challenging and rewarding way to spend my days.

I have a true passion for working with our youngest learners! Helping each child progress in all areas of their development- is a challenge and responsibility- that I am honored to accept daily. My mom was right, I love teaching and can't imagine doing anything else.

On a personal note, I have a 26 year old daughter, Samantha, who is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside. I am truly blessed!

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, baking, watching movies, and spending time with my family.