Albert's Story
Albert was a seven-year-old boy struggling with some very difficult issues. His teachers at the Charter School could see that he suffered from a negative self-image, often telling them, "I'm dumb." Albert would give up easily on classroom tasks and then distract other students with his antics.
Two years ago, teachers recommended that Albert repeat first grade, but his parents declined, and he was enrolled in the second grade. Even with intensive work with Charter School staff, Albert continued to struggle; he was always on the edge of failing. When famed British art educator Malcolm Wray began workshops at the school, Albert seemed to transform. He instantly perked up and was absorbed by the material and lessons. After Wray’s departure, Albert continued using the techniques he learned in the workshop. His teacher was especially impressed when Albert turned to the internet to research the difference between rural and urban life after for a social studies project.
Principal Norma Silva, impressed with Albert’s initiative and talent, asked Albert and his parents if she could hang one of his pictures in the school office – they happily agreed. Albert, beaming with self-confidence and a joy of learning, began to participate in school activities with a new sense of success. Today, he is receiving passing grades, no longer in danger of retention.
As part of his new-found enthusiasm for school, Albert has immersed himself in Writer’s Workshop activities, and now considers himself as a writer and a poet. When asked what he likes about school, Albert responded, “My teacher told me that I can do anything I put my mind to and to never give up. She makes me feel great!
Fast Facts
In 2007, over 583,000 people in Los Angeles County lived in extreme poverty
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87% of children of immigrant families in Los Angeles County are U.S. citizens
