Zaineh Saleh
Editor in Chief
Rosa Cruz returns to Hollywood High as a restorative justice counselor after taking a six-year leave.
Cruz graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia but later moved to San Diego to complete her master’s in education at National University.
She had previously worked at Hollywood for a total of 12 years holding three different roles including being a Spanish teacher, Dean, and Title One Counselor. She later left Hollywood to work in the Pasadena Unified School District and then went back to LAUSD in 2020, to work at Stevenson Middle School.
“I missed working in a high school [setting], and I wanted to continue the restorative justice work,” said Cruz. “It just so happened that there was a new position open under the BSAP program, it’s all about timing.”
The position of a restorative justice counselor is new to the school prompting many questions regarding its roles and responsibilities. It is a common misconception that the work of a restorative justice counselor is equivalent to a dean’s position.
“As a restorative justice counselor, I do not hold the role of a dean, but I rather assist them,” said Cruz. “My role is more positive than punitive, which includes conducting restorative circles, conflict resolution, and focusing more on improving negative behavior.”
While explaining her day-to-day tasks, the interview was interrupted with Cruz was called away to solve a conflict between a group of students.
Cruz aims to do daily check-ins with students experiencing conflicts and ensure they attend all their classes and are on track with grades. She also supervises during lunch and is an extra layer of support to all students and staff.
“I am here to support all students in navigating conflicts, and reinforcing positive behavior,” said Cruz. “Students can be referred to me by their counselors or approach me when needed in room 408.”