Luz Elena Cerrillo has been a
volunteer for the schools in DISD for more than 10 years. She
has 3 children: Jose Ernesto who is in the 10th grade, Nina
Lucero who is in the 7th grade; and Diego Alberto who is in the
6th grade. Mrs. Cerrrillo believes that her children are the
greatest gift that God has ever given her. She says, “The
greatest accomplishment that one can have as parents is the
impact that they leave on their children. That impact is
achieved by supporting them and helping them along the way in
each obstacle that they face in their lives.”
Guadalupe Guzman was born in
Monterrey, México. She owns her own business. Her son, Milton
Rodríguez is in the third grade at FM Gilbert Elementary.
Guadalupe believes that communication with her son is the key to
his growth. She knows that talking with her son and being
actively involved in his education will allow them to have a
strong relationship with each other and keep him away from bad
influences. Milton says, “My mom is a great role model and I
know many kids wish their moms could be just like mine. I am
very happy with the family that I have.”
María Hernández is a single
mother of two girls who are very important in her life. María
knows the importance of being both a friend and a mother to her
girls. Not only is she a single mother and is working full time,
but she also devotes as much time as possible to her daughters
by helping them with their homework or simply talking to them
about their day.
María Méndez is married to Jose
Méndez. They are proud parents of three beautiful boys; Adrian
age 11, Aaron age 9 and Brendan age 1. Mrs. Méndez was born in
Monterrey, México and has lived in the United States for many
years. She recently became emp- loyed full time as an
Administrative Office Assistant. Mrs. Méndez also does Spanish
tutoring on Saturday mornings. Maria Mendez says, “As a
struggling parent, I am extremely grateful for this award. I can
assure you that this is a great blessing that will assist our
family and will certainly help my children as they pursue an
education.”
Ruth Veronica Rojo has three
children ranging from ages 20 to 10 years old. She has been
happily married for 20 years. “I would love it if all the
parents would become more involved in the activities their
children are participating in. By being involved, it would help
establish a beautiful relationship within the family and help
achieve our goals that we set our minds to.”
Xochitl Hurtado is from Torreón
Coahuila, México. Ms. Hurtado has always been active in
community affairs, such as radio, television, ballet folklorico
and any other project that would enhanced the Hispanic culture.
Due to the adversities of life, Ms. Hurtado has been raising
three of her grandchildren for the past two years. The children
range from the youngest of 2 years and two teenagers of 12 and
13 years old. Although it is very challenging for Ms. Hurtado to
raise her grandchildren she is providing the most essential
necessities such as shelter, food and love.
