Spotlight on Communities in Schools: Julio Santana

Spotlight on Communities in Schools: Julio Santana

Julio Santana is our dedicated Student & Community Advocate at the West Valley Mid-Level Campus. Julio is a representative of Communities In Schools of Central Washington. Communities In Schools is an organization supported by philanthropy. Their mission is “to support students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.”

Hailing originally from San Diego, Julio Santana moved to the Yakima Valley in the early 2000s. He first attended Eisenhower High School and, then, graduated from A.C. Davis High School in 2007.

Currently, in his second year with Communities In Schools and his first year at the Mid-Level Campus, Julio’s primary goal is to empower students by providing a supportive community and guidance. He does this by drawing from personal experiences that underscore the lasting impact that such programs have on youth success.

Family is paramount to Julio, alongside his wife, who works with ESD 105, and their two daughters, ages 3 ½ years-old and 2 months-old. Their household bustles with five dogs, and might soon welcome a new furry friend, pending spousal approval.

Outside work and family, Julio finds joy in planned and spontaneous family trips, solving various Rubik's cubes, and painting. His says that his placement at the Mid-Level Campus has been fulfilling – he appreciates the welcoming environment fostered by the administration and staff and he has remarked on the genuine investment in students and families that is evident throughout the West Valley School District.

In his initial months at the Mid-Level Campus, Julio has begun forging trust with students while diligently uncovering and addressing barriers that hinder their academic journey. He eagerly anticipates the ongoing impact that this partnership will bring, excited to continue supporting and uplifting students in their pursuit of success. Julio Santana has been an invaluable addition to our inclusive culture at the West Valley Mid-Level Campus.