Selma Luna Memorial Scholarship

Growing up in Alief, within disadvantaged communities and low-income households, has profoundly shaped my perspective on education and the potential it holds for breaking cycles of poverty. I am driven by the impactful memories of educators, such as Ms. Heath, my second-grade teacher, who believed in me and cared for my educational journey. My own family's limited access to higher education emphasized the importance of learning as a means to transcend economic hardships. In my career, I am committed to inspiring youth, particularly in low-income or Title I schools, where educational resources may be scarce. I aim to instill in students the significance of obtaining an education and remaining curious and excited about learning. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of growing up in an economically disadvantaged community, I understand the transformative power education can have on one's life trajectory. Being the first in my family to pursue higher education, I am motivated by the belief that every child, regardless of their background, has the potential to achieve academic success. My mother, although not able to pursue higher education herself, always encouraged me to do so, hoping for a brighter future. I aspire to instill this belief in the students I teach — that they have the resources within themselves to break free from cycles of poverty if they actively seek and embrace education. As an artist, I bring a unique perspective to education, challenging limiting beliefs, particularly within Latin communities, surrounding the stereotype of the struggling artist. I aspire to inspire children to be creative, to dream big, and to see the vast possibilities beyond societal expectations. I want to empower my students, fostering confidence and self-belief in their abilities to shape their futures. Moreover, my commitment extends beyond the classroom. I am dedicated to giving back to the community that played a pivotal role in shaping my journey. Through mentorship programs, community initiatives, and leveraging my artistic skills, I aim to contribute to the educational and cultural enrichment of the community that supported me. My experiences underscore the transformative potential of education, and I am determined to be a beacon of inspiration for the youth, just as Ms. Heath was for me.

My name is Angelina Gonzales and I grew up in Lovefield, Dallas, Texas. I didn't go to a highly-funded elementary school, but I was taught by the greatest minds who gave me the education which I believe every child in this world deserves. I plan to give my future students all the knowledge and the best advice I have been given throughout my life. I want to preach to my students how they are their own individuals and their minds are the best and most useful tool they will ever use in their life. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves through their work. I truly look forward to being someone who these kids will look back to and remember, "Yeah, Ms. Gonzales taught me how to do this." It is my dream and aspiring goal to mold the great minds of the future, because that is what these kids are. They are the future and I believe it is my purpose to help them aid our world and society into something better than it is now.

I have always loved the idea of education. I love working with kids and letting them use their curiosity to grow their minds. School goes beyond the academics we teach them. As I am studying early childhood education, I realize more and more, the importance of investing in students and their minds. I want to be able to lead by example through gentleness, but also firmness. I want them to see that I stand for something, and while they do not need to believe the same things I do, I want to encourage them to find something that they are also passionate about. We say that children are our future, so why not invest in our future? Why not spend all the time needed to get to know these kids? Listening to their ideas and letting them ask questions. When I was younger, one of my biggest fears was asking questions. Often times, I was afraid of being judged if my question seemed too simple. Now, as I am older, I see that some of the most simple questions are the most interesting and intriguing. These are the questions that make you think and learn. I want to inspire kids to be curious and to love learning. I want them to be able to learn from me, for me to learn from them, and for them to learn from each other. Letting them know that I might not always have the answer, allows them to feel more able to share their questions and thoughts. I love that idea of an environment where students can just be themselves, but also grow the way that they need to.