By AMANDA ARMSTRONG
Communications specialist
Manteca Unified School District
Jessica Munoz, a graduate of Manteca Unified schools, has been named the Manteca Unified School District 2024-25 School Counselor of the Year.
Once a student walking the halls of East Union High School, she has come full circle, now serving as a source of inspiration and guidance for current East Union students as they navigate their college and career pathways.
Munoz’ story is one of resilience and determination.
As the first in her family to attend college, she has channeled her experiences into a passion and expertise for supporting students as they overcome barriers to pursue their dreams.
"I love encouraging and motivating students to better themselves," Munoz shared. "When I meet with students, I always ask them, 'What's your plan? What do you want to do when you graduate?' I tell them that by the time they graduate, they will be sick of me asking that, but my goal is to help them decide what they want to do with their future.”
“Being a counselor is more than just helping them pick out their courses; it's about helping them figure out their next steps after high school.”
As a counselor for Special Programs, Munoz works closely with students in AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), CARE (Community Active Response to Education), Migrant Education, ELD (English Language Development), and Foster Youth support programs, offering tailored guidance and empowering them to reach their full potential.
Nominated by her supervisors and colleagues and carefully selected by a committee of executive leadership, Munoz’ recognition as School Counselor of the Year is a testament to her exceptional mentorship, advocacy, and dedication. She has played a pivotal role in supporting English Leaners in reaching language proficiency, securing record-breaking scholarships for AVID students, and developing strategies to support foster and migrant youth.
Her nominating team at East Union High expressed their admiration, stating, "Rather than a traditional caseload, Jessica volunteers to serve students with the most need, ensuring that they receive the guidance and resources needed to succeed. She diligently seeks out students facing additional barriers and works tirelessly to help them overcome challenges. Her proactive approach ensures students stay on track for graduation. Jessica’s passion and advocacy have made a profound impact on student achievement, making her an invaluable asset to East Union and the broader community."
Desthiny Mora, a senior at East Union High School, shared how the guidance of Munoz has shaped her high school journey.
“Mrs. Munoz has impacted my high school journey by fully supporting me and believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself,” Mora said. “She always asks, ‘What’s your plan?’— a question that has pushed me to stay on top of my goals and make them happen.”
“In 2022, my brother passed away, and I missed many days of school. I never expected to be where I am today, but Mrs. Munoz never gave up on me. She told me I could do it as long as I tried my best, and that gave me so much hope. Now, I will be graduating from EUHS in May of 2025."
Beyond academics, Munoz builds meaningful connections with students, empowering them to navigate challenges and dream big. Her commitment to equity and student success ensures that every student—regardless of background—has the opportunity to thrive.
To learn more about Munoz and MUSD’s Employees of the Year, visit www.mantecausd.net/eoy2025.
