After substituting last year, one of our new full-time teachers, Ms. Gimenez, teaches AP Human Geography, U.S. History and Learning Strategies this year. In addition, she is the soccer head coach. We are excited that she is joining us as a teacher and a coach for another year alongside her junior sister, Leanna Gimenez. Let’s learn a little more about her!
Q: Where did you go to college, and what did you study?
A: I first studied for two years at Golden West College, which is where I got my associate’s degree for transfer. I then transferred to the University of California, Irvine, which is where I got my bachelor’s degree in history.
Q: How did you start teaching at Rosary?
A: I got my first taste of “teaching” at Rosary when I had the opportunity to be a full-time substitute. As a sub, I got the chance to learn some of the inner workings of the school, and I also got to spend lots of time getting to know the students across multiple grade levels. This made my transition to being a Social Studies teacher much smoother since I felt comfortable with the students and my colleagues.
Q: How did you get into coaching?
A: I sort of got into coaching by accident; I say this because I didn’t initially seek it out as a job. I started coaching in 2020 with private training for younger players as something fun to do. From that I got connected with CDA Slammers, Huntington Beach, which eventually led me to become an assistant coach at Rosary. I have now been coaching Rosary for five years (I think I am starting to lose count) and am grateful to be in the position of Head Coach.
Q: What are some unexpected parts of your role as a soccer coach?
A: One unexpected aspect of being a soccer coach is the number of emails I have to send; it turns out it’s a lot. Also, every practice and every game bring about its own set of unexpected challenges. Whether it’s having to adjust formations, working around injuries or managing emotions of certain moments. The unexpected parts of the role are what make it much more exciting!
Q: What do you like to do in your free time?
A: I must say I haven’t found myself with too much free time this year, but when I do get a moment, I love to travel, be with my friends and family or try out new coffee spots.
Q: Where is your dream vacation destination?
A: Picking a dream vacation spot is the most impossible question. I have been obsessed with traveling to Brazil because I am fascinated by the nature and culture. I also would love to travel to Turkey because it has an interesting history and good food!
Q: What is your favorite food?
A: My favorite food has to be beef empanadas, specifically made by my mom or grandma. Plus, they are always at every family event, so I have great memories attached to the meal.
Q: What’s your favorite part about Rosary?
A: My favorite part about Rosary is easily the people who make it so great to work here. Everyone, from the students to staff, goes out of their way to say hello and check in, which shows people really care about one another here. I am constantly entertained by students’ daily updates, and I have felt greatly supported by my fellow teachers, which has made being at Rosary a great experience so far.
We are so happy Ms. Gimenez is back in the classroom and on the field!
