Counseling Staff

  • Brett Shibata, Head Counselor
    310.917.4802
    I earned my BA degree in Liberal Studies from CSU Sacramento, my MS in Counseling, counseling credential and teaching credentials from Fresno State University.  I grew up in Sacramento and lived in upstate New York as well.  I enjoy all things outdoors (I was a Boy Scout), eating good food, snowboarding, traveling and spending time with my family.

    6th Grade Counselor - Mr. Ruben Valerio

    310.917.4821

    ruben.valerio@lausd.net

    I earned my BS degree in Kinesiology from Cal State Northridge and my MS in Counseling from Cal State Los Angeles. I've been a P.E. teacher at a small private school, worked for non-profits and spent 10 summers and other holidays running kids programs on cruise ships for Crystal Cruises all over the world. I grew up playing sports and continue to enjoy an active lifestyle. Tennis and basketball are the two I enjoy most and still play, when my rickety old knees allow. I enjoy spending time volunteering for a dog rescue called Pug Nation LA helping place pugs in good, loving homes, being outdoors, the arts, traveling, being with family and helping young people discover their strengths and find their 'spark' in life. 

    7th Grade Counselor - Ms. Joy Kobashi  

    310.917.4843

    jkobashi@lausd.net

    I received my BS degree in Terrestrial Zoology from CSU Long Beach, my MA in Education, counseling and teaching credentials from CSU Dominguez Hills, and my Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction from USC. I'm a product of the Los Angeles Unified School District and graduated from Gardena HS in 1982. I have worked for LAUSD for the past 19 years as a teacher, counselor, Assistant Principal, and Magnet Coordinator. I enjoy working with students and helping them rise to their fullest potential. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends, dining out, serving my church, and volunteering for the American Cancer Society to help end cancer in my lifetime
     
    8th Grade Counselor - Ms. Cecilia Esparza  
    310.917.4830

    cecilia.esparza@lausd.net

     
    I attended the first two years of college at the local junior college, Porterville College, in the city I grew up in. Later I transferred to the University of California, Riverside where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies.I pursued Graduate School at California State University, Northridge where I completed my School Counseling credential. My personal interests include hiking, running, practicing yoga, reading, watching movies, walking my neighbor’s dogs, and spending time with my family and friends.

    Regina Castillo-Lemon

    310.917.4844

    Records Clerk

    I went to Glendale Community College and obtained my Associate degree in the Applied Science Nursing program, as well as, a certification and licensing in Cosmetology. I enjoy going to the ballet with my family. I also love to garden, cook, photography and take long walks on the beach.

     

     
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