Choosing a profession is one of life’s most important decisions. Often people worry that they will not like the profession that they select or that it won’t bring them fulfillment. However, there are times when a profession calls on people and is much more than something a person does daily. In rare cases, a person is called upon by a profession. This is the case with Mr. Bautista.
Mr. Bautista was an exceptionally devoted educator who made our library come to life. He believed in the power of books and the knowledge that existed within their pages to transform people for the better. As much as he loved the library, Mr. Bautista also loved stepping out into the classroom where he worked with teachers and students.
He was so much more than a keeper of books, he was an educational champion.
His contagious smile and genuine interest in others are admirable. When conversing with Mr. Bautista he authentically listened and was never concerned with being the center of attention. Mr. Bautista truly sought to understand and then be understood. In today’s society, this is a rare trait that most people do not possess.
It is not surprising that Mr. Bautista attended the prestigious Brown University where out of 100 applicants only 5 get accepted. From there he moved on to Georgetown University where only 13% of students gain admission. Mr. Bautista’s intelligence was matched only by his amazing, warm, and charming personality.
South El Monte High School and the library will never be the same without the presence of Mr. Bautista. In honor of this wonderful human being, visit the library, check out some books, and see for yourself why Mr. Bautista loved you and them so much.