After graduating from Los Banos High school in 2021 and completing his degree at the University of Arizona, Daniel Cervantes has returned to his roots to give back to the community. Now working as a Community School Liaison, he is focused on providing students and their families with the resources and support they need, both inside and outside of the classroom.
While attending college in the Arizona heat, he not only grew academically, but also personally. He discovered a connection to his new environment, switched his major to history, and experienced unique moments such as being in the press box during football games. Yet, despite these influential experiences, his heart never left Los Banos. Returning home meant reuniting with family and embracing an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the community. His mission was clear: he wanted Los Banos to “feel like home and not a place to leave.”
His work involves a commitment to connecting students and families with critical resources. These include local services related to food, housing, mental and physical health, education, transportation, legal aid, parent support, and culturally specific organizations. If a needed service is not already part of the school’s network, he plans to find a solution within the community and follow up with the families directly.
He also emphasizes staff involvement, regularly checking in to see how students and families can be supported. From organizing visits from local organizations to attending school events and hosting conversations with families, his top priority is to be present and approachable.
Plans are already underway to create dedicated spaces for one-on-one conversions with students and their families to better understand their needs and build trust.
His personal experience at Los Banos High was shaped by strong friendships and a supportive staff, including mentors like Mr. Reardon and Mr. Coleman, who he continues to appreciate. Despite the disruption of COVID-19, which affected the last half of his high school career, he recalls those years fondly.
Outside of work, he enjoys video games, birdwatching, and reading activities that help him unwind while staying grounded.
He is grateful for the opportunity to be back at Los Banos High School and is excited for what lies ahead. His journey is a full circle story of growth, resilience, and giving back, and he’s just getting started.
Cervantes is in room 47.
