From IT to the Classroom: Vallejo Native Malik Gray’s Full-Circle Journey to Teaching

When Malik Gray began his role as a technical support specialist with Vallejo City Unified School District (VCUSD), he didn’t expect it would lead him back into the classroom, particularly as a future teacher.

Gray joins VCUSD’s first cohort of teacher residents this fall through VCUSD’s Teacher Residency Program, which began on June 16. He is currently enrolled in an intensive and accelerated summer semester, part of the one-year residency leading to a master’s in teaching and a preliminary teaching credential in multiple subjects with a bilingual authorization. Gray will be the only African American male Spanish-speaking teacher—something he sees as both a responsibility and an opportunity.

“I found myself more and more drawn to students’ stories,” Gray said. “When a student told me it meant something to talk to someone who looked like them, I realized just how important representation is, especially for our Black and bilingual students. Students need to see themselves in their schools. If I can help even one student feel more confident, more welcome, or more understood in English or Spanish, then I’m doing something that matters.”

Vallejo isn’t just where Gray works; it’s home. He attended VCUSD schools from elementary through high school, ultimately graduating from Jesse Bethel High School. But his academic journey wasn’t easy.

“I barely graduated with a 1.7 GPA,” he said. “I didn’t get to walk the stage with my class and had to take summer and adult school every year to finish on time. But there were teachers like Mr. Henley, Ms. Werris, Ms. Surber, and Mr. Smith, who believed in me and never gave up. They constantly encouraged me, held me accountable, and reminded me of my potential. Their dedication inspired me to push forward and eventually join the United States Navy after high school.”

That support stuck with him. Malik returned to Vallejo public schools after serving in the U.S. Navy and working in tech. Encouraged by district leaders like Katrina Traylor, coordinator of teacher residency at VCUSD, Gray decided to pursue teaching. However, the teacher residency program requires a bachelor's degree. Gray enrolled at the University of Phoenix, graduating summa cum laude with a 3.96 GPA, just in time to start the program.

“Vallejo shaped who I am,” he said. “Now, I want to be the kind of teacher I once needed.”

Gray is completing his summer coursework while preparing to enter the classroom as a full-time resident in August. The residency program will culminate in a master’s in teaching and a preliminary teaching credential with bilingual authorization.

While he’s excited, Gray is also aware of the challenges ahead—especially as part of the program’s first cohort in Vallejo.

“There’s no roadmap,” he said. “But that means I get to help shape what this looks like for the next group.”

His background in educational technology gives him a strong foundation. From interactive whiteboards to digital platforms, Gray hopes to bring interactive and tech-forward instruction into his classroom while supporting students’ digital literacy.

“I’ve helped teachers implement tools that make learning more engaging,” he said. “Now, I get to do that for my students.”

The VCUSD Teacher Residency Program is designed to develop future educators within the community, which Gray believes is essential.

“When students see someone who understands their culture, language, and struggles, it makes a difference,” he said. “This isn’t just a career change. It’s a calling. I appreciate that the program is rooted in the community, because I want to continue working here long term and be part of the positive change happening in our schools.”

Gray said he’s felt support from the district throughout his transition—from VCUSD Superintendent Rubén Aurelio and Assistant Superintendent Heather Topacio to his mentor and former manager, Winston Crump, director of technology.

“There are so many people in this district who want you to succeed,” he said. “That sense of community is one of the reasons I love this city and VCUSD.”

For any classified staff considering a path to teaching, Gray offers this encouragement:

“If you care about students and want to make a difference, you already have what it takes. Talk to people. Ask questions. Take it step by step. You’ll be surprised how far you can go.”

Looking ahead, Gray hopes to build a classroom where students feel seen, challenged, and inspired.

“I want my students to know that where you start doesn’t define you,” he said. “It’s how you show up, how you grow, and how you finish that matters.”