Julio Flores is not only the head groundskeeper at Dos Pueblos High School but also a coach for the boys’ soccer program. In his free time, he enjoys going outdoors with family and friends.
“I don't really like being at home. I like being out and about, and it also reflects … with my job,” Flores said. “I like hanging out with friends and family. I like hiking. I like camping a lot—mountain biking, kayaking, every once in a while.”
In contrast to these outdoor activities, Flores said that he prefers cooking at home. He loves cooking barbecue, especially chicken and ribs, and also likes sweets.
“I love chocolate. I don't know if that's considered candy, but I definitely love chocolate and just M&M'S,” Flores said.
Flores added that he loves working at DPHS because of the school’s strong sense of community.
“I think just the environment, the students, definitely our staff, and the fact that I'm involved with sports, involved with Beautify DP … just goes a long way,” Flores said. “I appreciate it so much.”
In addition to groundskeeping, Flores has been part of the DPHS boys’ soccer coaching staff for 15 years.
“I've been with the soccer program since 2011,” Flores said. “Mr. York was here first, and then he asked me to help him out and we've been together ever since.”
Flores enjoys working with the soccer program and hopes to win a California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) championship with the team in the near future.
“I'm always proud of the boys, always proud of their efforts, we're chasing that CIF championship,” Flores said. “I love coaching here and [I’m] appreciative of being here, being part of that team.”
Outside of his roles at DPHS, Flores spends time with his dog, a Belgian Malinois, whom he brings with him to many places.
“She's 4 years old, and she is a handful [but] she's great,” Flores said.
Having worked at DPHS since 2008 and served as head groundskeeper since 2010, Flores is passionate about his work and about connecting it to his life outside of the school.
“I love working here and just being part of the team and leading some of the teams,” he said. “So I would have never thought in a million years that I would have a cool job like the one that I have.”
