Patty Gutierrez: 'We have great students'

Patty Gutierrez

Office Specialist

Monterey Adult School

Patty Gutierrez started working for MPUSD 22 years ago as the school secretary for Juan Cabrillo Elementary School, which later became the facility for Monterey Adult School.

“I answer phones and talk to students, teachers, community members, anyone who walks into the office,” Gutierrez said.

She now works as the office specialist for Monterey Adult School. Prior to working in education she worked as a case coordinator for Monterey County Conflict Resolution and Mediation Center for six years.

Originally from Mexico City, Gutierrez moved to the Central Coast of California with her family when she was seven years old. She attended Moss Landing School and graduated from Watsonville High School. She enjoys working in education and is inspired by the students she serves.

“We have great students, very grateful. And I’ve known many from 21 years ago. So they start taking English classes, life happens, so then they stop coming. But they’ll come back and they get their GED, their high school diploma or even join one of our other programs,” Gutierrez said.

Monterey Adult School offers a wide range of continuing education options like courses to become a certified nurse assistant, construction skills, fitness classes, computer skills, pathway to citizenship, culinary and more. The school maintains a waitlist for some classes because demand is increasing.

“The beauty of our school is that they’re here because they want to be here. They’re adults, so they have other options. But they always come back to us. So I think because of the different classes that we offer and we have great staff, teaching and also support staff. So I think that’s the reason why they come back,” she said.

Every year she looks forward to seeing students graduate with their GED or receive a certificate for a course they completed.

“Very satisfying just to see them and how excited they get to receive a certificate. It’s amazing,” Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez has two adult daughters, she likes to hike and go to the beach, and loves her five pitbulls.