Missael readily admits that he thought Escuela de Guadalupe’s principal was “mean” when he was in 5th grade. But today — now that he is a father! — he understands the value of high expectations.
“I was always very irresponsible with homework,” says Missael. “I was that kid who thought, ‘Don’t tell me what to do. I’m going to do what I want.’ In public school, it was hard for teachers to pay attention to one kid in their big classes. At Escuela de Guadalupe, it was a close community, a whole different ballgame of education.”
Missael says he was able to form real relationships with his teachers and friends, which made all the difference in how he approached his work.
“I’m glad my mom made the choice to send me to Escuela because of all the doors and opportunities it has given to me. I’m sure I have a different way of living now than I would have if I hadn’t attended Escuela.”
Full Circle: Missael made the decision to send his own daughter to Escuela de Guadalupe. “I knew that I wanted a good education and future for her. I can see that she is very hard headed like I was. She wants to do things her way. The best way to help her grow is Escuela. I want her to be challenged, but I also want her to build her own way to move forward.”
