“Through systematic instruction, support and embedded social emotional learning, our students can achieve success in all areas of study."
Professional DocumentsI have a wealth of experience spanning more than two decades in both the public and private school setting. I encourage you to take a look at the documents linked here.
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School Leadership and Educational PhilosophyGet a sense of my educational philosophy and perspective in education.
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Jonathan Souza, educator
California native Jonathan Souza received his undergraduate training at Humboldt State University in Arcata, California completing his BA in Music Education and Vocal Performance. His graduate studies were completed at San Jose State University where he received a MA in Music, Choral Conducting under the mentorship of Dr. Charlene Archibeque. He also holds a K-12 Music Credential and Administrative Services Credential in California.
Now in his 11th year at GHS and 22nd year as an educator, Mr. Souza brings a wealth of experience to the Gilroy Unified music department as the choral music teacher at both comprehensive high schools. Mr. Souza’s advanced choral ensemble regularly receives superior ratings, travels extensively internationally most recently completed a performance and service learning tour to Quebec.The Chamber Singers perform for various civic/community events all across the southern SF Bay Area including singing the National Anthem at professional sporting events including the San Francisco Giants, Oakland Athletics and San Jose Sharks. In addition, the Gilroy High School Chamber Singers, under the direction of Mr. Souza, were selected by audition to perform at the California All-State Music Educators Conference (CASMEC) in February of 2020.
Prior to teaching in Gilroy Mr. Souza spent two years living and teaching music in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico where he directed all levels of general and vocal music at the American School of Puerto Vallarta. Over the past 20 years, Mr. Souza has been recognized for his teaching excellence including the 2022 Arts Leadership Award from the Santa Clara Office of Education, California Music Educators Association’s 2008 Outstanding Music Educator of the Year for Humboldt and Del Norte Counties, the Fortuna Union High School District Principal’s Award in 2008 for his outstanding service to his students at Fortuna High School, the 2010 Wells Fargo Stagecoach Teaching Excellence Award and was recognized by the Gilroy Unified School District for his excellence in teaching numerous times during his tenure at GUSD. Currently, Mr. Souza is the Director of Choirs at Gilroy and Christopher High Schools.
Now in his 11th year at GHS and 22nd year as an educator, Mr. Souza brings a wealth of experience to the Gilroy Unified music department as the choral music teacher at both comprehensive high schools. Mr. Souza’s advanced choral ensemble regularly receives superior ratings, travels extensively internationally most recently completed a performance and service learning tour to Quebec.The Chamber Singers perform for various civic/community events all across the southern SF Bay Area including singing the National Anthem at professional sporting events including the San Francisco Giants, Oakland Athletics and San Jose Sharks. In addition, the Gilroy High School Chamber Singers, under the direction of Mr. Souza, were selected by audition to perform at the California All-State Music Educators Conference (CASMEC) in February of 2020.
Prior to teaching in Gilroy Mr. Souza spent two years living and teaching music in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico where he directed all levels of general and vocal music at the American School of Puerto Vallarta. Over the past 20 years, Mr. Souza has been recognized for his teaching excellence including the 2022 Arts Leadership Award from the Santa Clara Office of Education, California Music Educators Association’s 2008 Outstanding Music Educator of the Year for Humboldt and Del Norte Counties, the Fortuna Union High School District Principal’s Award in 2008 for his outstanding service to his students at Fortuna High School, the 2010 Wells Fargo Stagecoach Teaching Excellence Award and was recognized by the Gilroy Unified School District for his excellence in teaching numerous times during his tenure at GUSD. Currently, Mr. Souza is the Director of Choirs at Gilroy and Christopher High Schools.