BACKGROUND
My mom influenced my artistic abilities since childhood. Though we struggled for essentials, she maintained her creative pursuits expressing dedication, perseverance and gratitude. This would equip me to foster a classroom of students with disabilities, encouraging different styles of learning and coping through creativity.
My dad was an island boy from Puerto Rico who had an opportunity to create beautiful homes alongside an esteemed Chicago architect. Although committed to his craft, harmful habits would lead to a gloomy turn.
My father was often absent. He didn’t love me less, but sometimes our habits can distract us from doing the right things. He returned to my life in very poor health. Before he passed, he apologized for not being there. He told me he loved me, to respect my mother and always forgive.
After being exposed to addiction, violence, and evictions, I often questioned how I grew up to be the person that I am today. I saw betrayal from family first hand yet my father chose to forgive and reminded me to do the same. My father was charismatic, charming and confident - more gifts I’ve inherited.
My audience hasn’t always been supportive, yet I knew my art would eventually connect me to the right people. My dream of becoming a full-time artist began to take shape through sacrifice.
I volunteered coaching sports at Funston Elementary. The students’ struggles were nearly identical to my own fatherless home - exposure to violence and addiction. In return for coaching flag football the kids invested their time and didn’t shy away from asking about my love life. They insisted I meet their teacher, Ms. Chang. Our initial meeting didn’t go smoothly! Eleven years later I attribute my lovely wife to those incredible kids.
My wife has challenged me and amplified my passion for working with children. This led to my first job with Chicago Public Schools. I was paired with a student named George. He was non-verbal, but a charmer and ladies’ man. We learned greatly from one another! It’s rewarding to see how far my young friend, George, has come.
Every role in public education is a contribution. Some days are hard and others are harder. A classroom filled with smiles is my daily reminder of how important each role is. To be impactful we must teach, encourage and lead by example.
