An Interview with Mr. Hernandez Visual and Performing Arts Teacher

Pictured 2025 Winter Showcase “A Christmas Story” with Anya E.

Since 2019, Mr. H has been bringing creativity and energy to Cristo Rey De La Salle East Bay High School as the Visual and Performing Arts teacher. Now in his seventh year teaching  he works with students across multiple disciplines, including theater, music, fine arts, and drawing and painting.

Mr. H’s schedule includes eight sections:

• Drawing & Painting for sophomores (2 sections)
  
• Fine Arts for juniors and seniors (1 section)
  
• Music (2 sections: one for sophomores, one for juniors and seniors)
  
• Theater for juniors and seniors (1 section)
  

Previously, he taught a four-quarter introductory course for sophomores, giving students exposure to theater, music, and fine arts. In addition to classroom teaching, he is heavily involved in student life, including leadership clubs like ASB and LSL, and oversees summer academic support programs.

When asked what he hopes for the students at Cristo Rey Mr. H responded…

“I want students to have the full high school arts experience,” he says. “Whether it’s performing in a play, playing in a band, or displaying artwork in the hallway, students learn about creativity and collaboration.”

Looking to the future, Mr. H hopes to expand the program with dance, choir, visual arts, and digital media design. He also directs larger productions, culminating each year with the spring showcase—an intentional performance event for students to share their work with a real audience. This year’s showcase is scheduled for May 29th.

For Mr. H, education is about more than transferring knowledge—it’s about helping students find their voice. He believes that art is not just aesthetics; it’s a form of communication and self-expression. “Most artists focus on one area,” he explains. “I encourage students to explore different aspects and discover what works best for them. Many come in thinking they aren’t artistic or are too shy, and by the end of the year, they leave with confidence, appreciation for the arts, and a sense of self-discovery.”

Through theater, music, and visual arts, Mr. H gives students tools to express themselves and challenge their own boundaries, creating a vibrant and inclusive arts program that continues to grow at Cristo Rey De La Salle.