Jesse Contreras
K-7 Spanish / High School Film
jcontreras@cornerstonechristian.net
Mr. Contreras was born in Santa Cruz, California, and moved to South Carolina at age 17, where he finished high school. He later attended Full Sail University in Orlando, Florida—one of the top film schools in the nation—where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Film. The program was rigorous, with demanding 12-hour days and overnight schedules, which shaped his professional discipline. Out of over 300 students who started, fewer than 100 finished, and Jesse was proud to be among those who persevered.
With nearly 20 years of professional filmmaking experience, Jesse has worked on feature films, documentaries, commercials, corporate and marketing projects, and live events. While still active in the film industry today, he also runs two creative businesses and continues to mentor others who want to pursue careers in media. Teaching became a natural extension of his career, as he had already been guiding and mentoring students in photography and cinematography during film school and beyond.
Outside of teaching, Jesse enjoys fitness and bodybuilding, filmmaking, Hawaii vacations, exploring new foods, and catching movies at the best IMAX theaters. He is excited to bring his passion for storytelling and creativity into the classroom while helping students discover their God-given gifts.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
– Colossians 3:23
JUST FOR FUN
Birthday: July 19th
Favorite Color: Turquoise
Hobby: Anything artsy—playing music, drawing, painting, filmmaking, learning business
Favorite Weekend Activity: Watching an IMAX movie, date night
Favorite Treat: Reese’s products, flan, sushi