by Oscar Pinto
Mr. Jesurun, one of the newest teachers at Christopher Columbus High School, has made a profound impact on the school community. As a campus minister, teacher and mentor, he has touched the lives of countless students.
Born in the United States and later moving to Curaçao, Mr. Jesurun experienced life in two different worlds.
“Growing up in Curaçao was unique—electricity is more expensive, so you don’t live in air conditioning all the time like you do here. The houses are more open and my whole family lives on the same block, creating a much stronger sense of community. Life there is also more focused on outdoor activities,” said Jesurun.
Returning to Miami for high school not only strengthened his faith but it also played a pivotal role in shaping the man he is today. As a 2002 alumnus of Columbus, coming back to the school as a teacher gave Mr. Jesurun a unique perspective.
"There were a lot of new changes, but in many ways, it was still the same. The brotherhood was as strong as ever. It’s a close-knit community—even if you don’t know everyone personally, you’re aware of who they are,” said Jesurun.
He fondly recalled the school’s football games, a perfect display of the Columbus community, describing them as “always a big deal—super energetic, rambunctious and a great time.”
Campus ministry at Columbus has transformed many lives throughout the years. For a young Mr. Jesurun, it did just that.
“I got involved in campus ministry when Brother Ken and Father Quinn were running it. They invited me to an encounter and that experience deepened my relationship with God in a way I hadn’t anticipated,” he said.
Campus Ministry Director Gerardo Gonzalez knows the value Mr. Jesurun brings to the school.
“Mr. Jesurun has earned the respect and admiration of the Columbus community, by way of his style in serving others. He is friendly and he is approachable. He is willing to serve others unconditionally and he has already begun to develop relationships not only with faculty but also with students through several retreats that we have and also through mass. So through his Marist presence, he has already made a difference and I know he will continue to make a difference,” he said.
For Mr. Jesurun, faith isn’t just a personal belief—it’s a lifeline.
“Religion changed my life,” said Jesurun. “There was a time when I didn’t have much faith in myself and my family was going through a tough time. I felt unnoticed and unseen. But during a retreat, I found a love for God and it changed everything. I was searching for answers and I found them,” he added.
In Mr. Jesurun’s classroom, students learn more than theology— they learn about building a relationship with God.
“Teaching at Columbus is special because it’s not just about the subject matter. It’s about getting to know the students, understanding their lives and being there for them, whether it’s for help with schoolwork or just to talk,” said Jesurun. “Students aren’t just here to learn theology from me; they’re here to grow as people.”
Being a religious teacher and remaining centered on God are things Mr. Jesurun values deeply.
His vision is certainly met as students continue to develop the valuable lessons learned from him.
“Mr. Jesurun as a teacher has helped me realize that God is not just someone I pray to but someone who I should have a relationship with,” said sophomore Emmanuel Rodriguez.
Ultimately, for Mr. Jesurun, the greatest impact he hopes to leave isn’t tied to his name or face, but to the lessons his students take away.
“I don’t mind if they forget who I am, as long as they walk away with something that strengthens their relationship with Christ. That’s what matters most to me.”
PICTURES PROVIDED BY MR. JESURUN
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