Hispanic group helps students realize teaching dreams

Born and raised in Avondale, Jennifer Gonzales knew she wanted to get her first teaching job in the Southwest Valley.

After graduating from Agua Fria Union High School in 2003, Gonzales had her sights set on Grand Canyon University in Phoenix. But tuition - more than $6,500 a semester - was going to be a major hurdle.

"My parents helped out as much as they could, but I needed a lot of scholarships," said Gonzales, 24.

That's when she turned to Hispanic Leadership Forum del Oeste, which gave her about $1,000 each semester over 4½ years. Gonzales now teaches fitness at Centerra Mirage Elementary in Goodyear.

"I think that's one of the reasons I wanted to be a teacher here," she said. "To give back to the local community that has helped me so much."

Hispanic Leadership Forum has donated almost $300,000 toward scholarships in the Southwest Valley since it was established in 1998. Nearly 10 percent of that money has been raised through Season for Sharing, a program of The Arizona Republic and 12 News.

The non-profit forum focuses on college scholarships for Latino students majoring in teaching.

"You have people that grew up in this area . . . that can relate to their neighborhood and you can get them back in the classroom where they can shape and mold and motivate. . . . That's what we all want," said Adolfo Gamez, president of the forum and mayor of Tolleson.

"It's easier for them to come back. It's a pride thing being able to give back to your neighborhood."

Arizona State University freshman Gabriel Serrato also receives $1,000 per semester from the group.

"I live on campus. It helps me pay for books and everything," said the 18-year-old, a Tolleson Union High School graduate.

Serrato sees himself as a role model at home.

"You know, coming from Tolleson, not everyone has the opportunity to go to ASU, a big-time university. I really have worked hard to get here," he said. "I always tell my little sister to do her homework. I like to think that she looks up to me. I do try to set an example for all my family. If I can do it, they can do it, too."

Fitness teacher Jennifer Gonzales (middle) teaches ultimate frisbee to Mylena McKnight (left), 12, and Annamarie Negrete,12, students at Centerra Mirage Elementary School in Goodyear.