October 14, 2002

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hispanic leaders encourage teens to stay in school

     Luis Hernandez, a sophomore at North Shore High School, is planning to be an architect, but he knows that dream will not come true without a good education.
     “These days Hispanic teenagers face so many challenges so it is good to hear from our Hispanic leaders about the importance of staying in school,” Hernandez said.
     Hernandez and nearly 100 of his classmates participated in a career day sponsored by the North Shore High School LULAC (League of United Latin American Citizens) Youth Organization. Four Hispanic leaders, including Jo Ann Delgado, Harris County justice of the peace; Marcello Marini, director of programming and community service, KTMD-TV; Elena Cantu, Rancho del Viejo, owner; and Maricela Serna, Galena Park Multi-Services, talked to students about the importance of graduating from high school, pursuing a college education and serving the community.
     “Learning is a life long process” Delgado told the students. “Being a strong leader, being fluent in Spanish and English, making school a priority, getting a high school diploma and pursuing higher education will give you more opportunities in the future.”
     “Education must come first for these kids,” Marini said. “It will help them cope with the challenges they will face later in life.”
     Sophomore Aidee Garza agreed and said she is pleased to see Hispanic leaders inspiring young people. “Sometimes a student just needs a little push or encouraging word to feel they can achieve their goals. Without inspiration a teenager might not realize their potential.”
     After the career day discussions, Garza and Hernandez took away an important message that will help them achieve their goals – a successful future requires a good education.