Opportunity Youth Academy Schools
Phil Morales
OYA Principal
Phil Morales moved to the Bay Area from Orange County, California. He studied theology and philosophy, and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy from St. John's Seminary College in Camarillo, California. He proceeded to study education and earned a Master of Arts Degree in Education from San Jose State University. Phil brings 16 years of progressive experience in the educational field. His professional history includes positions such as Teacher, Academic Counselor, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal and High School Principal. During this time, Phil gained valuable insight on how to manage a school, design curriculum, and implement school initiatives that focus on the academic and social/emotional needs of his students. He has a deep passion for educating disengaged youth and young adults. Prior to a career in education, Phil was a law enforcement officer in Orange County, Ca. He left law enforcement and entered seminary where he studied to become a Roman Catholic Priest. These professional roles in law enforcement and religious life have all led him to a life dedicated to service.
OYA Administrative Staff
Blanca Morales
School Office Coordinator
Blanca has 13 years with SCCOE and has played a supporting role to several SCCOE department programs, including Special Education, Alternative Education, and OYA. Blanca is happy to be part of a team that is truly making a difference in the Santa Clara County communities.
Steve Duong
Navigator
Erika Velasquez
Community Liaison
As the Community Liaison, Erika is in charge of student registrations, enrollment and outreach. Erika is originally from south central Los Angeles, but moved to the San Francisco bay area when she was a freshman at UC Berkeley. Erika has been working for the Santa Clara County Office of Education since OYA first opened in 2015.
Mildred Amayun
Navigator
Kipcia Jimenez-Mendoza
Academic Counselor
Kipcia has a Master's Degree in Educational Counseling and a Pupil Personnel Services Credential. She worked with Santa Clara County for several years including at Juvenile Hall, James Ranch and Community Schools.