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Evelyn Bautista
Teacher, West Athen ES
Becoming a teacher is what I’ve always wanted, from the time I was six years old. Even though I was born in the United States, I was raised in Mexico and was able to master the Spanish language. My family decided that I should come back to the United States and go to school in California, starting in the 8th grade, which was not easy. In 1997, I was invited to enroll in The Multilingual Teachers Academy at Garfield High School. I felt very blessed and thankful for being given the opportunity to be a part of this academy and for always receiving the support of teachers like Mrs. Cazares, who guided and motivated me to go to college. She believed in me!!!
THE LADDER Magazine, Fall 2008 Excerpt
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Laura Rodriguez
This is a picture of when we went to CSUN to listen to Erin Gruwell speak. My students are my freedom fighters. That’s me, in the bottom row, second from the left.
During my middle school years, I was lost and did not have a vision for my future. At the end of my 8th grade year, I found out that some of my friends had been recommended for a new program at San Fernando High School called the Multilingual Teacher Career Academy. Even though we had not been invited to the informational meeting, my mom and I decided to just show up.
THE LADDER Magazine, Spring 2008 Excerpt
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Crystal Campbell-Shirley
Categorical Coordinator, 186th St. School
Starting as a campus aide at Figueroa Street Elementary right out of high school, Crystal Campbell-Shirley, is climbing the ladder of success with LAUSD. With a mother and sister teaching for LAUSD, it was easy for her to follow in their footsteps.
THE LADDER Magazine, Winter 2008 Excerpt
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Allyson Saito
English Teacher, South Gate MS
I was raised in Rowland Heights, California and have attended several colleges and universities since graduating from high school. These include Mt. SAC; East Los Angeles College, where I received my AA; UC Davis; CSULA, where I received my Bachelor’s degree in English; and Whittier College, where I completed my credential and will receive my Master’s degree in Teaching in September.
THE LADDER Magazine, Fall 2007 Excerpt