Get to Know Us: Darlin Ortiz - School Counselor, Listener, & Mentor

We’ve written extensively about our amazing counseling program that boasts one of the best counselor-student ratios in the state of California. 

And we’ve bragged about our incredible counselors, who are truly dedicated and inspired to work with IVA High students. 

Now, let’s get to know one of our counselors, Darlin Ortiz, a little better. Ms. Ortiz has been at IVA High for 3 years. She started out as a student counseling intern then moved into working as a paraprofessional and school counseling assistant. A long term resident of Long Beach, Ms. Ortiz brings a depth of knowledge about the local community that helps her connect with and understand our students in a special way.   

Tell us about your background and how that prepared you for your role at IVA High.

I am a first generation high school and college graduate. Growing up, my family and myself went through many challenges and obstacles, there was a cultural shock and a fear of my parents getting deported. I was scared of law enforcement and overall anyone that was an authoritative figure. I struggled immensely throughout my educational journey. I went to a high school in Long Beach and I truly had no idea what I was getting myself into when I applied for college. I received a bachelors in Human Services and worked as a case worker for families in crisis intervention housing; domestic violence, substance and homeless rehabilitation. I have been working with a population of young children (infants - teenagers), adults, and seniors from diverse backgrounds. My personal experience along with education and work experience prepared me for my role at IVA High. I am a better counselor and can connect better with families and students because of my own background.

What do you love about IVA High?

Because I went to a public high school in the Long Beach district, once I set foot through these doors I was mesmerized. I had experience working in shelters, and I myself come from an extremely large family and most of my life we have lived with at least 2 families integrated and dysfunctional but loving and supportive - all under one roof, one kitchen. What I love about IVA High is that it shares that home-y nostalgic feeling for me. I can be myself, I can love, I can build, and I can support others while receiving the same in return. That is the key factor in what sets it apart from other schools. Within the larger district schools there is a "systemic" feeling for it. I did not feel connected to my teachers, nor students, and it definitely did not feel like home. At IVA High, the students can walk up to the office and freely and openly ask Mrs. Sanders if they can ask her a question. I remember waiting outside of the building, sitting on a hard cold bench waiting for anyone, counselor, staff, principal to call me inside, and that's IF they had time that day. We do not turn down students here. 

What do you love most about your role at IVA High? 

What I love most about my role at IVA High are the students, being able to talk to them and understand who they are, and watching them grow.

Share a favorite memory of your work at IVA High.

My favorite memory of my work with IVA High is hard to explain. I developed an amazing student-counseling relationship with a student who was an English learner, predominantly Spanish speaking student who was facing many difficulties due to the language barrier. At one point the student and family were considering different schools because of this. I spent many hours speaking with this student and there was much more to the student than a language barrier. The student presented generational traumas and we were able to process together.  Although my role was to listen and offer tools to process, there were many things that I learned as well. Ultimately, the student not only remained at IVA High but began to even speak to teachers and students in English. This allowed the student to build a sense of confidence and we saw academic progress almost immediately. This student was also invited to my family’s Thanksgiving gathering, along with other students who were staying alone over the holiday. Now, the student is a high school graduate and enrolled in college as a first generation college student.

Tell us a bit about you.

I am a momma, so my daughter takes up most if not ALL of my free time. As soon as I became a mom, my life completely changed. I am now dedicated to sharing experiences with my daughter that I never got to have. I get to relive and heal my childhood. I love going to the beach, taking long walks with my daughter and dog Zero, painting, dancing, singing, having movie night every Friday, and cooking.

Fast Facts about Ms. Ortiz 

Best Sandwich: Tuna or BMT

Most adventurous thing you've ever done: Bungee Jumping

You get to listen to one singer for the rest of your life- who is it? 2 PAC

What's your secret talent? I can hand sew dresses

What superpower do you wish you had? Teleportation because I need to travel without going broke or damaging our Earth even more.

What one thing do you need in your refrigerator? Chiles serranos, tomatillos, cebolla, and cilantro.

What is the best compliment that you have received? I have a smile that can brighten your day :)

What did you want to be when you were 5? Baker or Vet

What's a cause that's dear to you? Speaking about/ healing generational trauma

Thank you, Ms. Ortiz! Our students and our school are all stronger thanks to your caring presence (and great smile)! 

About IVA High

IVA High is a fully accredited, tuition-free public high school in Long Beach, California with a mission to empower students to think well: creatively, critically, and with a capacity for self-growth. Our learner-centered approach puts students in charge of their education, while dual enrollment and paid internships transform learning into action. Students come for college prep, STEAM and limitless options for their future; they stay for smaller, safer learning in a vibrant, caring community. IVA High - Curious Minds, Empowered Community - Join Us.