Araceli Esparza 

Araceli Esparza grew up in Baldwin Park for most of her life. She graduated from St. John the Baptist School (Baldwin Park) and Bishop Amat Memorial High School (nearby La Puente). Following high school, Araceli attended the University of La Verne and graduated with a degree in journalism in 2000. Throughout her education, faith played a key role in Araceli’s foundation, journey, and drive; she eventually took a year off post-college and traveled the U.S. as a missionary with NET (National Evangelization Teams) Ministries, a Catholic group that facilitates retreats for youth throughout the country. Araceli relocated to St. Paul, MN, and worked for the non-profit organization for three years following her service year.

Araceli eventually returned to Baldwin Park, where she worked as a newspaper reporter for the San Gabriel Valley Newspaper Group. Araceli redirected her primary career from journalism, and she began working full-time at the parish level. She worked as a Religious Education/Baptism coordinator and High School Youth Minister within two parishes, including her home parish and alma mater of St. John the Baptist, for the next 8 years. It was through these opportunities that Araceli’s motivations led her back to teaching. Araceli became a middle school teacher at St. John’s in 2011, focusing on teaching Religion and Language Arts, as well as moderating the school’s Student Council and serving as emcee and (amateur) deejay for various school events. She completed her Masters through Loyola Marymount University, and applied her journalism background as a public relations consultant for nearby cities.