by Andy Ortiz

After nearly 50 years in the classroom, just when Mr. Eduardo Diaz thought he was out, St. John Bosco High School pulled him back in.

Q: Where did you grow up?

A: I was born in Mexico City, but raised in Los Angeles in the Highland Park neighborhood.

Q: What prior teaching experiences did you have before coming to St. John Bosco?

A: Before Bosco, I was a teacher at Cathedral High for two years. I was at Cantwell High School for three years and for five years at Serra High School in Gardena. And I spent the prior 36 years before this job at Loyola High School.

Q: What about St. John Bosco made you interested in working here?

A: I was attracted to the fact that I would be at a Salesian high school. I very much respect the teachings of St. John Bosco.

Q: News about your unique teaching style has circulated the junior class, making your classes very popular. How do you feel about your popularity amongst the juniors?

A: I believe students enjoy a class that is structured around “enjoyable learning.” Students work best when they are pushed to excel, yet the class is “fun.” 

Q: What do you think of this school as a whole so far?

A: I have always heard great things about Bosco, and indeed, they are true!

Q: What do you do in your free time? Any hobbies?

A: I very much enjoy working around the house.  I do my own handyman work, guided of course by YouTube. 

Q: What’s your favorite part of teaching?

A: My favorite part of teaching is watching the students grow, intellectually as well as in their maturity.

Q: What sports do you watch and play?

A: I most enjoy watching football, basketball and baseball.  I myself ran cross country & track in high school.

Q: What are your favorite foods/ restaurants?

A: No question, my favorite food is Mexican Food!  My favorite restaurant is my house. My wife is an awesome cook!

Q: How do you plan to stand out as a teacher?

A: I hope to stand out as a teacher by making my classes enjoyable yet challenging.

Q: Is a hotdog a sandwich?

A: Absolutely. And they rock! Go to Pinks Hot Dogs!

Q: Who is your favorite musician?

A: My favorite musician remains Jimi Hendrix.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: The Godfather.

Q: How different is St. John Bosco compared to previous schools where you’ve taught?

A: Bosco is different in the fact that they offer such a diverse student body. I truly enjoy that!

Q: What’s one piece of advice that you wish to give to all of the students here at SJB?

A:   Please, enjoy every day at Bosco and realize that four years will go by so quickly!

Q: Who’s your favorite sports team?

A: I am a huge Dallas Cowboy fan!  

Q: What previous jobs did you have before teaching?

A: This has been my life …  I am currently in my 47^th year of teaching! I have also coached cross country and track for 46 years.

Q: What’s a piece of life advice you always follow?

A: Respect the people around you … even if they are different.

Q: Why did the chicken cross the road? 

A: Well, of course, to get to Bosco!

Q: What do you see the world being like in the distant future?

A: I see a better living community, people of different paths living as one.

Q: What else would you like to share with the Brave community?
A: Thank you, Bosco, for welcoming me into your home!