Today’s Champion is Vince Hernandez! This video shows students at Cedar Ridge High School, telling why Hernandez, a football coach, is their American Graduate Champion. The letter from student Kahli McQuitty says “Coach Hernandez has been there for me since I joined the school. As the ‘new kid’ I had to overcome many obstacles and he was there every step of the way, always with a smile on his face. Coach Hernandez is not only constantly encouraging me during football, but also to raise my grades and improve my academic life. He is easy to talk to and get advice from.”

Denise Hernandez knows firsthand the challenges of being the first member of your family to go to college. Since her parents didn’t complete high school, she needed to find advice and guidance from different avenues. Now as a lawyer and mentor at Con Mi Madre, she is a strong advocate of giving back and helping other young Latinas start their higher education.

“I never emcee without the mind of a scholar, and I’m never a scholar without the mind of a emcee.” This pretty much sums up the philosophy of Bavu Blakes, a prominent Austin rapper who now spends his time melding the worlds of hip-hop and education to create a learning experience that is captivating, intrinsic and edifying.

Students from various high schools in AISD produced the video above.

Austin PBS, KLRU-TV is thrilled to be a part of a collaboration with AISD through our American Graduate work. Seventeen student filmmakers from seventeen AISD high schools tell the stories about the “champions” who have supported, challenged and encouraged them in their academic and personal journeys.

The film captures the richness and diversity of life in AISD high schools and the dedication of the teachers, coaches, families, and community members who inspire students every day. The film will be premiered at the South Lamar Alamo Drafthouse and the student filmmakers will be part of a panel discussion with moderator Hema Mullur from KEYE. We are proud that youth is helping tell the story of American Graduate and the importance of shining light on “champions.”

Today’s Champion is Sarah Shaney!Sarah works as a CIS Program Manager at Eastside Memorial High School. Her nomination letter from the community said, “ Sarah is an American Graduate Champion because she does whatever it takes to help her students, from providing basic needs assistance and individual and group sessions, to success coaching to help her students stay on track with their academic goals. Sarah’s work demonstrates that meeting students where they are, taking the time to listen and understand, and tailoring the support offered to the unique circumstances of the student really can keep students from dropping out, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.”

The Communities In Schools program at Eastside Memorial is managed by Sarah and serves 115 students. During her first year at Eastside Memorial, Sarah implemented a success coaching program at Eastside. Eighty students on Sarah’s 2014-15 caseload received success coaching three times during the school year. Volunteers met individually with students under Sarah’s direction, working with students to talk about GPAs, grades, college and career plans, and to check on progress toward meeting their goals. Sarah helps to provide students on campus with new ways to cope with stress including round-table discussion groups and a peer-to-peer mental health educator program. Sarah believes in advocating for her students both on campus and in the community. During the Texas Legislative Session earlier this year, Sarah and a group of CIS students visited the capital to talk directly to representatives about the realities of student life and the importance of CIS services. It was a great opportunity for students to be part of the conversation and Sarah really shined talking passionately about her students and her work. At a campus visit to Eastside in the spring of 2015, one of the students Sarah works with told CIS that he was planning to drop out of school because he struggled to juggle two jobs and school but that Sarah had helped him rearrange his schedule and set goals so he could stay enrolled. He said that thanks to Sarah, he would not only graduate from high school but that he also planned to apply to college next year.

Today’s Champion is Mandy Stalcup!. As a CIS Program Manager at Crockett High School, Mandy provides a range of programming to support students on the campus including working with students individually, in groups, college & career exploration, with basic needs and more. Her nomination letter said, “The time Mandy spends helping her students stay focused on grades and attendance and with college and scholarship applications makes a huge difference in keeping them motivated and on track. Students are empowered when they are given support and encouragement from a caring adult.”

Mandy works to support students at Crockett High School by matching her programming on campus to the specific needs of the school community. One example provided of how Mandy’s work empowers students to stay in school and achieve in life is how she helped a student named Keyanna. Keyanna graduated from Crockett High School in June 2015 and she credits Mandy with helping her stay focused on keeping her grades up and also with providing assistance as she navigated scholarship and financial aid applications. All the effort Keyanna and Mandy put in paid off. Keyanna graduated with a 3.6 GPA, she was accepted to five universities, and she received several scholarships. “I don’t know where I’d be today without Mandy,” she said. Despite living all the way across town for long periods during high school, Keyanna was never late and didn’t let the obstacles she faced keep her from succeeding in school. Mandy helped her get bus passes and provided ongoing support and encouragement, reminding Keyanna of her goals and what she needed to do to stay on track. This fall, Keyanna started her college career at the University of Texas and she will be the first in her family to attend a four-year university. Mandy has kept in touch with Keyanna since graduation and continues to cheer her on.

Today’s Champion is Julie McCann! Julie McCann is a special education teacher in Buda, Texas. She is passionate about her work and devoted to her students. “Her dedication towards providing an education to students whom may require extra attention and care not only demonstrates the kindness of her heart, but also portrays the champion within her,” her nomination form said. “It is truly inspiring being able to witness the work Mrs. McCann does with the special education department. Her personal connection with each student is undeniable.”

Today’s Champion is Adrian Plaster! Adrian Plaster is a teacher at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. She teaches French and sponsors the school French club. She looks out for her students and gives them moral support. She encourages her students to try their best. “She has always been there for me and has given me advice when I most needed it. Even when I struggled in her class and it took me long hours to understand, she stood by my side and didn’t give up on me,” her nomination form said. “Learning is never easy, especially when it’s something new. Though be it as it may, there are those who still support you and don’t leave you side.”

Today’s Champion is David Bowe! David Bowe is a teacher at Jack C. Hays High School in Kyle, Texas. He teaches social studies, and always makes his students a top priority. He wants to help his students any way he can. His story shows “there ARE teachers out there who DO care about them, with no real reason to. They simply care because that’s the kind of person they are,” the nomination form said. “Mr. Bowe, since the beginning of the school year, has proven that he sincerely cares for his students. He’s teaching to help them achieve something in life, to help them move forward with it and to teach them how to do so.”

Today’s Champion is Melinda Earp! Melinda Earp is a teacher at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. She teaches English. “Mrs. Earp is a champion because she gave me the greatest sophomore English 2 year I could ever ask for. She is a great person,” her nomination form said. “I would think that others would want to take her class because she is a very good benefit.”

Today’s Champion is Tracy Harris! Tracy Harris is a teacher in Buda, Texas. She teaches first grade students. “When I finished first grade I was far behind the other kids and barely knew how to read and she would pick me up from daycare during the summer and teach me free of charge,” her nomination form said. Her story teaches people “to be nice out of the kindness in their hearts and not expect anything in return,” the form continued.

Today’s Champion is Brandi Brownlow! Brandi Brownlow is a teacher at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. She teaches World Geography, but also teaches her students leadership strategies and urges them to do their best. “She has been a mentor to me and has taught me to be the best I can be. Going through her class her leadership has taught me much today as a leader now I can look at the strategies she used,” her nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Deborah Moore! Deborah Moore is a mom, teacher, behavior specialist, 4-H leader and communitry activist in Kyle, Texas. She juggles dedicating her time to school, family, community activities and work. “Not only does she deal with a lot at school with her students and handle it well, she also has to come home and deal with my brother and [me] the rest of the time, so she never gets a break but she handles it like a champion,” her nomination form said. “People who are going through a rough time and don’t think they can get through it they would have this story to look at and know that they could do it.”

Today’s Champion is Kimberlee Jackson! Kimberlee Jackson is a mother in Buda, Texas. She supports her two children and refuses to give up on them and puts her family’s needs before her own. Even though she can’t make all of her children’s competitions, she always supports them.

“She always has a smile on her face and that smile soon spreads through out the family. She is the best person to call a mother and any one would be more than lucky to have such an amazing woman as their own mommy,” the nomination form said. “All mothers have made sacrifices for their gamily, and they are also the best superheroes to have in your life. We all learn and look up to our mothers, and we all appreciate what they do for us every day.”

Today’s Champion is Elizabeth Morales! Elizabeth Morales is a teacher and mother in Buda, Texas. She teaches fifth grade students. “This person is a champion to me because she is a wonderful hard working mother who takes sacrifices for others,” her nomination form said. Her story shows “there are always people who work hard and sacrifices for others,” the form continued.

Today’s Champion is Brandon Henry! Brandon Henry is a teacher in Buda, Texas. He teaches agriculture. “He always was there when I had a question about my animals and was the best teacher I’ve ever had,” his nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Jason Ferrel! Jason Ferrel is a teacher and coach in Buda, Texas. He teaches geography and economics. He is a champion “because of the way that he approaches things and the ways that he treats his students,” his nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Ryan Nash! Ryan Nash is a teacher in Buda, Texas. In addition to teaching statistics, Nash teaches his kids about life and communicates valuable life lessons in his classroom. “Kids arent going to figure out how pay taxes on [their] own so might as well teach them how to do it smartly,” his nomination form said. “He teaches valuable life lessons as well as helping kids learn more in statistics.”

Today’s Champion is Kevin Knox! Kevin Knox is a teacher in Buda, Texas. He is a good, young teacher who handles a lot of different people’s needs. He is a champion “because he works hard and deals with a lot of stress,” his nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Lori Callus! Lori Callus is a pre-AP Geometry teacher in Buda, Texas. She leads the student council and coaches girls basketball, calculator UIL and sponsors math club. “Ms. Callus always works hard for the multiple groups and organizations she’s apart of or leads, while also does an excellent job of teaching Pre-AP Geometry. Everyday she shows up to school and performs her duties and does them to the best of her ability,” her nomination form said. “If other teachers and students saw or noticed how hard teachers like Ms. Callus do, there would be more students motivated to join and help with other groups or organizations as well pay more respect to teachers in general.”

Today’s Champion is Angie Mendez! Angie Mendez is the community relations director for the Hays County Independent School District. She puts hard work and hours into her job. “Angie Mendez is a champion because she goes above and beyond with her job and the community for volunteering and raising money for the school district,” her nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Norma Santana! Norma Santana is a mother in Kyle, Texas. She works hard to keep her family’s lifestyle. Her life story shows “anything could be achieved with enough effort,” her nomination form said. “She works extremely hard to maintain the life me and my siblings have all by herself.”

Today’s champion is Alex O’Brien! Alex O’Brien is a math teacher in Buda, Texas. She is invested in her students. “Mrs. O’Brien is a champion because she is extremely smart and organized. She stays on top of her students and can always help them on anything they need help with,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Debbie Cook! Debbie Cook is a tennis coach and AP U.S. History teacher in San Marcos, Texas. Recently, Cook lost her house to heavy rainfall, losing almost everything and stalling plans to open a woodworking shop with another teacher after retiring. The community poured out its support. Despite her losses, Cook maintained her positive attitude, keeping her chin up and smiling during classes and pushing her athletes in tennis matches. “Coach Cook would always make the entire team run whenever I used the phrase ‘I can’t.’ She believed in us not necessarily always win, but to give 110% every time we played,” her nomination form said.

“She touched everyone’s lives just as much as she did mine. She is genuinely compassionate and unselfish. I aspire to be like her,” Claudia Norman continued on the form. “Someone who may seem ordinary, impacted me on such a personal level that I attempt to be positive for her, then eventually myself. I see just how much an attitude can effect someone’s reality. Coach Cook exemplifies many of the attributes I wish to posses and learn throughout my life. She taught me and so many others that we can do it, we can be great.”

Today’s champion is Hannah Ramsey! Hannah Ramsey is a student from Buda, Texas. She attends Georgetown University and plays softball. She is a great role model for young people. “Hannah is a dedicated student, she works hard at anything she is given. If there is an obstacle in front of her, she will find a way to surpass that obstacle and excel. She is very down to earth and has a big heart,” her nomination form said. ”

Today’s champion is Nancy Cantu! Nancy Cantu is a teacher in Kyle, Texas. She is an inspiring person and carries her inspiring nature throughout her life. “She is a role model that inspires me to be a better person,” her nomination form said. “She is a champion because she is a great mother, friend, and person.”

Today’s champion is Jonathan Lopez! Jonathan Lopez is a student in Kyle, Texas. He is a member of the Kyle Area Youth Advisory Council (KAYAC). “This young man has been there for me since elementary school and has always been very supportive to me and everyone else,” his nomination form said. “Everyone will be able to have hope for the future of our world knowing good people still exist like my best friend.”

Today’s champion is Maria Nesloney! Maria Nesloney is a Language Arts teacher in Rockport, Texas. She is a helpful teacher with good advice. “She was always my go to listener. She gives the best advice. Without having met her, my life would be completely different. I am happy to have met her,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Jacob Aguirre! Jacob Aguirre is a student in Kyle, Texas at a Hays County Independent School District school. “They work hard,” his nomination form said. “Others need to work hard too.”

Today’s champion is Tracy Niemann! Tracy Niemann is a stay-at-home mom in Kyle, Texas. She is a hard worker dedicated to her family. “She is a dedicated and determined woman who has always put her family before herself in times of either financial or educational issues,” her nomination form said. “Her story is one of a common woman and how despite the thousands of challenges that have confronted her she’s always managed to overcome them.”

Today’s champion is Kaelynn Bowers! Kaelynn Bowers is a student in Buda, Texas. She is good with kids and strives to inspire her sisters. “She is a strong individual that can push through any situation she is put through and inspires others and sets good examples for her little sisters,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Patricia V. Jones! Patricia V. Jones is an elementary school counselor and single mother in Kyle, Texas. She supports her family and works while maintaining involvement with the Hays High School band. She was the first of her family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree from Trinity University and a master’s degree from St. Mary’s University. Jones is also a two-time breast cancer survivor. “By turning her past obstacles into lessons, she gives her heart to kids who need her help. Whether it’s words of encouragement to send you to class, a bold statement to protect you from harm, no words at all to help you relax or a nice lunch in her room simply to make you smile, she will provide it. I have yet to meet someone who works this hard solely for the betterment of those around her. She teaches that, no matter how bleak a situation may seem, it can always be turned into an opportunity for doing good,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Catherine Changos! Catherine Changos is a young person from Buda, Texas. She practices photography and works hard. “She is [an] amazing person and she will inspire others,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Ranson Moore! Ranson Moore is a young man from Buda, Texas. He is a smart, state-bound pole vaulter who respects all people. “He is a champion because he has changed peoples lives. He has welcomed students into a good group of souls. He can be counted on by anyone, even the President of The United States of America. He has dreams of becoming a general surgeon and I know he will achieve them,” his nomination form said.

Today’s Champions are Josue’s friends! Josue Gonzalez’s friends are a group of friends in Round Rock, Texas. His friends help him be confident in who he is wherever he goes. They helped and supported him in coming out as gay to his family. “Others would benefit from this story, because for those who are having trouble with confidence in being themselves, or for in this case coming out, it shows how there are people who can help you and will accept you for who you are,” Tia Sheu, their nominator, said.

Today’s Champion is William Bugh! William Bugh is an American Sign Language teacher in Round Rock, Texas. Bugh uses his own impaired hearing to enrich lessons. He realistically and creatively teaches his students what it means to be deaf and covers important deaf history in his lessons. He “uses hearing disability to his and his students’ advantage,” his nomination form said. “It is an inspiring story of a teacher who is able to overcome his disabilities and use them to his advantage.”

Today’s Champion is Timothy St. Peter! Timothy St. Peter is a volunteer at Success High School in Round Rock, Texas. St. Peter volunteers with the NCC program at the high school. He helps students and talks to students about their grades and attendance. “He makes a change in students lives who have had a hard time at home and in school,” Gary St. Peter, his nominator, said.

Today’s Champion is James Lilley! James Lilley is an assistant manager at Andy’s Frozen Custard in Round Rock, Texas. He inspires his younger coworkers to pursue college careers and visit potential colleges. He shows his coworkers “being a minority doesn’t mean that you can’t go to college,” according to Braylen Hines-King, his nominator. “James Lilley is a champion because he proved that even if you have low income there are still ways for you to go college with scholarships from extra circular activities such as baseball,” Hines-King said.

Today’s Champion is Christopher Corn! Christopher Corn is a car salesman in Round Rock, Texas. He donates money to and helps many organizations and foundations, like the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Sunshine Kids. “This person helps me realize important things in life,” Trevor Escobedo, his nominator, said. “This story will make other people realize that helping out with organizations and foundations could benefit disabled kids or kids in need.”

Today’s Champion is Michael Bomani! Michael Bomani is a mentor in Round Rock, Texas. Bomani works with mentally disabled children. He moved to the United States to give his family a better life before beginning his mentor work. His story shows “you can have a rewarding job and life if you work hard for it,” Andrea Mendoza, his nominator, said.

Today’s Champion is Sara Parriott! Sarah Parriott is a business teacher and tutor in Round Rock, Texas. Parriott went out of her way to help a first-generation Latino student finish high school. “Inspired, always be close with your teachers because they always can help you especially graduate or any struggles you’re facing,” her nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is James Hall! James Hall is the vice principal of Cedar Ridge High School in Round Rock, Texas. Hall goes out of his way to put people at ease, and takes the time to make sure students are comfortable in their personal environment and at school. He’s always willing to help people with their problems. “It reminds you that the world is generally a good place with may people willing to help one another,” his nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Leslie Decker! Leslie Decker is a teacher in Round Rock, Texas. Decker is a high school language teacher. She helped one student work through his learning difficulties to become successful. “People will be inspired by the amazing work the teacher has done with the students and how encouragements can change a person’s life by a tremendous amount,” her nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Eric O’Malley! Eric O’Malley is a father in Austin, Texas. He encourages his son to do well in school and in life by helping him with complete homework and projects. “He wants me to have a better future, so he helps me with schoolwork and anything else I may have trouble with,” his nomination form (by his son) said. His story people “even if they are low income that they can have a good future and go to college.”

Today’s Champion is Rosey Woodfin! Rosey Woodfin is a kindergarten teacher in Round Rock, Texas. She gives hope to bilingual and unilingual families alike that early education will be beneficial and enjoyable. “She inspires her students to pursue their dreams and learn and she helps the Spanish-speaking family members of her students understand her class and feel welcome,” her nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Nolan Ferree! Nolan Ferree is a senior student at Cedar Ridge High School in Round Rock, Texas. In addition to his regular courses, Ferree is a Varsity basketball player, a personal basketball trainer, a mentor and a tutor. His nominator said Ferree helped them in many aspects of their life, including academics, basketball and generally doing the right thing. “Any person can be your champion and any body can be beneficial to yourself,” his nomination form said. “Many people look for champions as dads, or moms but sometimes the champion is the friend right next to you.”

Today’s Champion is Joye Ardrey! Joye Ardrey is a teacher in Round Rock, Texas. Ardrey teaches the class of future teachers at the Cedar Ridge High School Academy of Public Services. She leads a group of student leaders and mentors in her curriculum classes, which include Principles of Education and Training, Child Development and Child Guidance. “She is giving students hands on experience as a teacher and a mentor and giving them the tools they need to teach the kids well,” her nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Brenda Key! Brenda Key is a fifth grade teacher and mother in Round Rock, Texas. She supports her oldest child, an academically disabled high school student. She helps her child surmount the disorders that cause them difficulty studying, ADHD among them. Key stays patient, and actively works to help her child overcome her academic disabilities. “Brenda has and does dedicate her time to helping her child cope with the disability and overcome it,” her nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is Tim Holland! Tim Holland is an AP Physics I and AP Physics C teacher in Round Rock, Texas. He is also a SAT/PSAT prep instructor. Holland is a first generation graduate, and inspires his students to overcome any challenge to finish their education. As someone who struggled in school himself, he encourages anyone grappling with school or worried about college. “Being a first generation graduate and someone who struggled in school, Mr. Holland is a perfect model for students in the same boat he was as a student,” his nomination form said. “Through his story, Mr. Holland shows: as long as you work hard, you can do anything you set your mind to.”

Today’s Champion is Cayla Cardiff! Cayla Cardiff is a teacher at Cedar Ridge High School in Round Rock, Texas. In addition to teaching piano, Cardiff is the club leader for the school’s Gay Straight Alliance, a group which provides a space for students to meet, support each other, discuss issues related to sexual orientation and form platforms for LGBTQ, racial, gender and economic justice. “Ms.Cardiff helps to make all LGBT students feel safe at school, and make them feel free to be themselves, based on her own experiences and seeing how having a negative environment would hurt the student,” her nomination form said.

Today’s Champion is the PALS club at Cedar Ridge High School! Students in the PALS club at Cedar Ridge High School – in Round Rock, Texas – organize the “Raider Locker,” an in-school food, clothing, toiletry and school supply charity bank. These students make sure those in need of the Raider Locker feel comfortable accessing it. They keep the “locker,” actually a locked full-size room, organized and maintained. “They make sure the students don’t feel judged when in the Locker and try to help the students get through high school without worrying about the things they need that they might not be able to get,” their nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Gina Lozano! Gina Lozano is a debate coach in Lockhart, Texas. She goes above and beyond to teach and nurture her students. “Besides being my debate coach Gina has been a mentor to her students, aiding in finding scholarships for college, acting almost like a counselor in listening to problems and offering advice on how to handle them in a mature manner,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Cassandra Mora! Cassandra Mora is a mother and a commercial lender in Buda, Texas. She was nominated to show just how much parents and guardians impact people’s lives. “My mother is a champion just like any other mother would be. She taught me and raised me to be who I am today, and although I know I can be a handful sometimes, she always does the best that she can for me,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Lori Burns! Lori Burns is a mother in Kyle, Texas. She encourages her son in academics and life, and helps him through the rough patches in life. “My mother has easily been the most constant person in my life, as my world continued to grow and change with the introduction of newer people, and the deaths of old,” Jeremiah Faecke said on her nomination form. “We often take our parents for granted, expecting them to be there or to be forgiving, but these things can cease at any time. Take a step back and view your treatment of them, and try to treat them as best you can, for you never know when they may not be there to welcome you home.”

Today’s champion is Marisa Rios! Marisa Rios is a mother in Buda, Texas. She works hard for her children every day. Rios works while she’s going back to school and started her own business that finds missing children. “All she does is good. Every decision she makes betters the situation. Her main goal is to keep me and other children safe. She is the most caring person that i know and doesnt have one bad bone in her body,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Kaylee Morales! Kaylee Morales is a student at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. She juggles a job at Logan’s Roadhouse with high school. Others would “benefit by getting to know such a great person,” her nomination form said. “She is very helpful and a very outgoing, nice person.”

Today’s champion is Julissa Martinez! Julissa Martinez is a student in Kyle, Texas. She is involved in her school’s science club and juggles school with a job at Tractor Supply Co. “Julissa is an outstanding friend and helps with me all my college applications,” her nomination form said. “Her dedication can motivate others.”

Today’s champion is Holly Glickler! Holly Glicker is a mother in Buda, Texas. She dedicated her life to her two children so they could grow up differently from her own childhood. She is the second of five children, with two half brothers, and had to juggle school, taking care of her family and working two jobs. Glickler went to the University of Texas on scholarship money and graduated with no debt before working at IBM. After her two children were born, Glicker became legally disabled due to her epilepsy. Her child, Morgan Glickler, wanted to share her story as an inspiration. “My mom is a kind, caring, and loving person. Even though I can get annoyed with her, my life would not be the same without her,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is David Null! David Null is a teacher and coach in Buda, Texas. Null is the head coach of the Rebels, the Jack C. Hays High School baseball team. Null also coaches the inside linebackers for the school’s football team. “He gave up his job to be a teacher and a coach,” his nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Ever Calderon! Ever Calderon is a father in Kyle, Texas. In addition to being a father, Calderon is a sheet metal worker, hard worker, and a wise man. “My father encourages my brother, sister and I to reach higher goals than what was given to him as a youth. He loves us and my mom no matter what,” his nomination form said. “He inspires my family members and [me] to work for what you have and learning is the key to success.”

Today’s champion is Emily Berger! Emily Berger is a student in Buda, Texas. She participates in many clubs, including Leo Club, G-Force Officers, and the National Honor Society. Though she isn’t sure what major she wants to pursue, Berger took advantage of dual-credit courses offered at her high school to get a step ahead. “Emily is a dedicated student, who values her education, and is willing to do anything to help those around her. Emily is very outgoing, and always does whatever she can to make sure that she achieves her goals,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Maria Balderas! Maria Balderas is a student at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. She supports, listens, helps, and most of all never gives up on anyone. Balderas was nominated to show “there is still hope in this world; good people still exist and care for the world, but most of all care for humanity,” her nomination form said. “Truly, this champion does enough just by merely being there for anyone.”

Today’s champion is Emmalee Day! Emmalee Day is a student at Bowie High School in Austin, Texas. She is a competitive cheerleader and pushes her teammates hard to keep up their skills. “Emma is a champion because she is one of the happiest, funniest and straight forward person I know. She gives the best advice and is always there to lend a helping hand,” her nomination form said. “I don’t know what I would do without her in my life.”

Today’s champion is Chris Gardner! Chris Gardner is a teacher in Kyle, Texas. Gardner is always teaching – whether he’s in the classroom or outside it. “He is a champion because he is one of the best teachers that the school has to offer,” his nomination form said. “He is wonderful at enhancing this area’s youth through education and is consistently recognized as one of the most impactful teachers on campus.”

Today’s champion is Faith Reed! Faith Reed is a student at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. She is a cheer captain, a leader for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, Leo Club, a G-Force officer, and an active member of her church’s youth group. “Faith is a very sweet person who is kind to everyone she meets. She is very outgoing and always does the right thing. She is extremely active in giving back to the community and I believe that makes her a champion,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Lacy Folsom! Lacy Folsom teaches high school senior English and debate in Kyle, Texas. She cares about her students. Folsom “spend[s] many hours a day helping to prepare seniors before going in to the real world with skills that will be needed for the rest of their life[ves],” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is David Keils! David Keils is a high school student and football player in Buda, Texas. Keils juggles school, football and a job at The Salt Lick. “He is a high school football player with a big heart,” his nomination form said. “He is a great friend and is kind to everyone. ”

Today’s champion is Marianne Wensmann! Marianne Wensmann is a teacher in Buda, Texas. She dedicates her time and energy to her students – she doesn’t just try to pass knowledge according to curriculum standards. “Mrs. Wensmann has helped me to be confident in my life choices, led me to discover my leadership skills, supported me whenever I felt crestfallen. Moreover, she helped me to overcome my language barrier as English is my third language. Besides this, she was first to sponsor YMCA Youth and Government Club at Hays High School,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Anthony Leflet! Anthony Leflet is the head band director at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. He pushes the band to the best of their abilities in order to perform well at competitions. “Each week we can [get] better at the music and flag work that the band and color guard do. We raise the bar after we perform each time so that way we do better and better at each game and competition,” his nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Travis Loy! Travis Loy is a high school physics teacher in Buda, Texas. He aids students by improving their knowledge every day he goes to work. “He was able to help many of his students pass an Advanced Placement Physics test that the entire nation was not prepared for. However, this is not all that makes Travis Loy a Champion. He is able to connect with his students on an emotional level, and is able to help his students not only in physics, but also in life,” his nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Valerie King! Valerie King is an English teacher at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. She keeps her classroom exciting, so her students are more interested in the subject than their phones. “When she assigns projects she explains it in such a way that everyone knows what to do. If someone isn’t doing their work, for various reasons, she encourages them to try and work and will help if they get stuck or don’t know how to progress,” her nomination form said.

Today’s champion is Chris Smith! Chris Smith is a youth/associate pastor in Kyle, Texas. He organizes community activities for youth, counsels families, organizes mission trips and mentors youth. “I consider Chris Smith a champion in my life because of his undivided devotion to his youth group, church, family, and community,” his nomination form said. “I cannot express the gratitude I have for him and his family.”

Today’s champion is Tom Ray! Tom Ray is the AP Government teacher and senior representative at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. He knows how to relate to his students. “He makes a hard class easy for his students by trying to engage his students in activities and make it relatable to the knowledge that we currently know,” his nomination form said. “He nurtures us and he tries to make the effort to see his students succeed.”

Today’s champion is Kerri Espinoza! Kerri Espinoza is a teacher-turned-guidance and career counselor in Buda, Texas. She organized the largest volunteer organization at Hays High School and guides her students through any emotional or academic problems. “She has devoted a large part of her life to making sure her students receive a quality life,” one of her nomination forms said. “Also, she is always optimistic about each of her students and assures them that they are capable of doing whatever they want to do. She is a great role model for high school students and any one who wants a bright future can benefit from speaking to her.”

Today’s champion is Joellen Gates! Joellen Gates is a community member in Buda, Texas. When she isn’t working for the IRS, Gates works to help addiction sufferers through a support group – 1313 – she and her husband started. “She is a champion because she puts everything to the side to help another,” her nomination form said. “In her 1313 meeting in Austin, TX, she leads the meeting and speaks with addicts, alcoholics, and recovering people and works with them through a 12 step process that she has found worked for her in her time of weakness. She receives phone calls from these people all day every day no matter what time it is, and speaks with them in a comforting but firm way to lead them down the path of success.”

Today’s champion is Bonnie Bosarge! Bonnie Bosarge is a counselor at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas. She leads students down the path of success by helping with a plan for graduation for more than 500 seniors, whether for college, junior college, trade school or military. “She volunteers and works tirelessly for all of the students and staff,” Bosarge’s nomination form said. “She has overcome numerous obstacles: flood, painful divorce, heart attack, and abuse – yet always puts her students first.”

Today’s champion is Gregory Boyd! Gregory Boyd is an ESL teacher in Austin, Texas. He helps support students in the process of learning English. “He has been helping me since I came to the U.S. I did not know if I wanted to continue in school, but the way he teaches and treat the students made me realize that education is important. Now I want to be a teacher,” Oscar Martinez, his nominator, said.

Today’s Champion is Rosanna Worthington! Rosanna is a Communities In Schools (CIS) teacher in Manor ISD.

The recognition letter submitted by the community said, “Ms. Worthington is a champion because she has really helped me gain self-confidence, and she constantly encourages me to stand up for myself and not be afraid to speak up. I know she always welcomes me with an open heart and mind, and because of her, I am gaining self-confidence.”

Today’s Champion is Kevin Ritcherson! Kevin is a College Prep Coach and youth motivator. He presents College Prep boot camps at schools across Texas and in other states.

His nominator, Donna Hoffman, says, “Kevin exemplifies a great role model of attitudinal positivity, flexibility and firmness — clarity of vision. He is a great motivator for young people who might not otherwise see themselves as college material and provides information to young people who might not otherwise know what to do to prepare themselves to be accepted in and succeed in college.”

Today’s Champion is Rudi Andrus! Rudi is the Executive Director of Mainsprings School. She works with staff, children, parents and the community at her National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accredited early childhood school.

Her nominator, Crystal Martinez, says, “Rudi is a champion because she truly is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families. She really enjoys walking through her school and seeing the children be happily engaged in learning. Rudi is a great writer, has received grants and is an effective speaker when explaining the devastating effects of poverty on young children and their families to the business community.”

Today’s Champion is Briana Lopez! Briana is a mother of two and a full-time retail employee who recently obtained her GED through Lifeworks. Briana aspires to study pharmacy and plans on attending ACC and eventually Texas State or UT.

Jaime Rich, Briana’s nominator, says, “Briana’s story shows her determination to further her education, no matter how difficult or scary it seemed. She was driven to make a better life for herself and her girls. Despite the many roles and commitments in her life, she was able to carve a place in her daily routine for her education.”

Today’s Champion is Libby Lucera! Libby is the French teacher and French club sponsor at Westlake High School. She teaches her students to love the language and culture, as well as how to be successful learners in her class and beyond.

Her nominator, Natalie Cannon, says, “She provides meaningful and valuable feedback on everything that her students do. It is so important that her students have immediate feedback that she spends many hours every night and weekend to make it happen. She also creates notes, guides, practice sheets and everything that she gives to them by herself. She is there to help them when they need it, and she does it with grace and enthusiasm.”

Today’s Champion is Liz Conway Plachta! Liz runs a nonprofit organization called Ruby’s Rainbow that grants scholarships to adults with Down syndrome who are seeking post-secondary educational opportunities.

The nomination from the community says, “In 2010, Liz and her husband Tim had an adorable daughter Ruby – who was born with an extra chromosome. They knew they wanted to ensure that Ruby had all the opportunities possible for her success in education and in life, and this quickly expanded into Liz wanting to help others with Down syndrome be able to go on to college as well. Inspired by her daughter, Liz founded the organization Ruby’s Rainbow and started fundraising to help provide college scholarships to help individuals with Down syndrome.”

Today’s Champion is Joseph Gallardo! Joseph is a recent University of Texas graduate and a nonprofit co-founder. While applying to law school, he does research for the western district of Texas and has just co-founded an organization that helps youth from economically disadvantaged communities in San Antonio.

Kenn Cannon, Joseph’s nominator, says, “He’s mentored struggling students at UT as an Academic Success Coach, he worked at the Capitol for Rep. Guillen, and he recently returned from Washington D.C. where he was interning at the Supreme Court of the United States in the Office of the Counselor to the Chief Justice. No matter how great he becomes in life and all the things I know he’s going to accomplish, at the core of it all he will always be a genuinely good person. All he wants to do with his life is help people.”

Today’s Champion is Dr. Eva Garza-Nyer! Eva is a college counselor in the Austin Independent School District. She has served over 6,500 seniors since 2002. And although she has worked in large comprehensive high schools, she makes every effort to meet each student individually before they cross the graduation stage.

One of Eva’s former students, Adrian Zamora, says, “During high school, Dr. Garza was insistent on having me apply to universities and scholarships that I would never have applied to on my own. She challenged me to think outside the box and was not afraid to tell me if she thought I was taking the easy way out—something that I am appreciative of to this day. Without her direction and invested interest in my future, I would not be where I am today.”

Today’s Champion is Project MALES! Project MALES is a research-based mentoring program housed in the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement over at The University of Texas at Austin that works specifically with males of color directly through Austin ISD.

Their nominator, Jorge Segovia, says, “Project MALES is a champion due to the awareness they’re trying to raise on the issue of male educational attainment. Based on the research conducted, males are more likely than females to drop out of high school. Males are also less likely than females to continue on with their education. This year, Project MALES has partnered directly through Austin ISD, also becoming a part of the “My Brother’s Keeper” Initiative through Austin ISD.”

Today’s Champion is Doni Whitlow! Doni is a mother in Richmond, Texas. She has helped her son develop into the player that he has become, on and off the field.

Her son, Markail Caron, says, “Single mothers are some of the strongest people in the world and can even be heroes.”

Today’s Champion is Glenell Bankhead! Glenell is the principal of Neidig Elementary School in Elgin. She motivates the kids to be leaders and to strive for greatness, and she cares for every student in the school, showing love and support for each and every one of them.

Her nominator, Sara Perez, says, “You can see the energy she brings into each project she gives, transferring it to the students. She gives many opportunities for the kids to learn and engage in new ideas and skills.”

Today’s Champion is JP Rodriguez! JP has been a volunteer for Communities in Schools in Austin for 19 years. He dedicates one hour a week to meet one-on-one with students to help them succeed in school, graduate from high school and go on to achieve in life.

His nominator, Debra Joiner, says, “JP’s service exemplifies the Communities In School’s model of bringing the community into the school to surround students with support. As a mentor, JP doesn’t preach to the kids because, he believes, ‘it doesn’t take many words’ to impart his core message: ‘I want to be your friend, and I’m here because I want you to understand that education is important.'”

Today’s Champion is Dr. Sterling Lands II! Sterling is an archbishop, teacher, motivator and role model. He spreads the Word of God and teaches others about improving our modern society.

His nominator, Reginald Shawn Terrell, Jr., says, “This man has made a significant difference in his daily life. Ever since he founded the Greater Calvary Bible Church, he created a change for many African American families and communities. He even obtained numerous awards from many people such as the mayor of Austin, AISD, and many others. To this day, he is changing the world for how it is to benefit society.”

Today’s Champion is Maria Martin Del Campo! Maria is a Spanish teacher at LBJ Early College High School. She works hard with her students every day to ensure their success.

Cesar Alonso, a student at LBJ High School, says, “She motivates us even in the small things she does. For example, by just asking us how our day is going.”

Today’s Champion is Sugar Ray Destin, Jr.! Sugar Ray is a motivational speaker and co-founder of the Claim your Destiny Foundation, which offers leadership, tutoring and mentoring programs. He is a huge advocate for the youth and teaching them how to develop into young leaders while giving back to the community.

Sugar Ray speaks at schools, after school programs and conferences and hosts a leadership program for youth, and his foundation is working with local school districts and colleges to plan its first Youth College Prep Conference.

Today’s Champion is Constable Maria Canchola! Maria is a community leader and mentor in Austin. She developed a mentor group for at-risk Hispanic students, and she continues to get involved in preventing truancy and students dropping out of school, while assisting the community and advocating for children and their families.

Maria’s nominator, Rosalinda R. Villarreal, says, “Maria continues to empower our families by inviting guest speakers to the group, who motivate and emphasize success for their children and themselves. Our parents have gained the confidence they need to actively participate in their child’s/teen’s education. Among the great successes of this group, parents have become more self-sufficient, positive leaders.”

Today’s Champion is Rodolfo Mendez! Rodolfo, or Rudy, is a community leader and mentor in Austin. He has taught folkloric dance and modern ballet to thousands of kids who wouldn’t normally have this experience helping them improve their self-esteem, grades and goal setting. His achievements include founding Ballet East Dance Company in 1978, dancing with the national companies of Costa Rica and Chile through the Peace Corps and being inducted into the Austin Arts Hall of Fame.

Laura Donnelly, co-founder of Latinitas magazine, says, “Rudy was born and raised on the east side of Austin and built his resume from the ground up. He brought his success as a dancer outside of Austin back to his neighborhood of origin – connecting young Latinos with the arts and in turn – helping them feel good about themselves.”

Today’s Champion is Natalie Cannon! Natalie is a Latin teacher at Westlake High School. Natalie takes Latin above and beyond any regular classroom teaching trough her use of electronic media, and she has changed learning from reading out of a textbook to exploring Latin in new and boundless ways.

Matthew Kearney, a student at Westlake High School, gives an example of how Natalie uses media to teach. “This year we watched a short film on Roman History. Instead of having us take notes on paper, she had us post tweets about the movie, tagging them so that other people in our class could read and respond to them. She employed this so that we could ask each other questions and help one another better understand the information being presented in the movie.”

Today’s Champion is David Robb! David is a journalism teacher at Pflugerville High School. He develops his students’ abilities to become stronger journalists and provides experience and insight on all of their projects to further their growth.

Kennedy Huff, a student at Pflugerville High School, says, “Within the three years that I’ve known him with his help I’ve gone from a student to a hardworking journalist. Robb helps students pursue their passions for storytelling. The students are fully engaged in the creative process, and David Robb takes that one step further. He inspires students to become more than they ever thought possible.”

Chaka is a man of many musical talents, which he funnels into his mentoring with E4 Youth. Chaka and E4 work together to introduce talented students to the process of professional music production, as well as to spread awareness about the history and culture of Austin that is being forgotten.

Today’s Champion is Cori Mullins! This video shows students at Cedar Ridge High School, telling why Mullins, a Tennis coach, is their American Graduate Champion. From the letter from the students “Coach Mullins always encourages us and supports us in tennis and in school. She has taught all of her tennis players to work hard and to really go after what they want. Coach Mullins shows just how much adults in a community can support students.”

Today’s Champion is Jose Jimenez! This video shows students at Cedar Ridge High School, telling why Jimenez is their American Graduate Champion. “Sr. Jimenez is a great example of a teacher who is truly making a different in his student’s lives. Sr. Jimenez pushes us to do better in his class and in other classes. He makes learning so entertaining and he inspires us to do our very best. He is so friendly and open, and he makes his classroom so engaging, exciting, and comfortable. He has always helped us through high school.” Watch the video to find out more!

Today’s Champion is Ashley Moran! This video shows students at Cedar Ridge High School, telling why Moran is their American Graduate Champion. “Ms. Moran is a great example of a teacher who is really making a difference in the lives of her students. She was encouraging, a real cheer leader. She would always push us in history and in our other classes.” Watch the video to find out more!

Today’s Champions are Kara Barfield’s friends! This video shows Kara Barfield, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, and why her friends are her champions. “My friends have all inspired me to go to school and gave me the strength to push myself further. Not only did they encourage me, they made me find my love for school again.” Watch the video to find out more!

Today’s Champion is Brandy Beasley! Brandy is a web design teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. Her recommendation video from Cedar Ridge High School said, “She was willing to help me when I had issues, tell me what to do to improve my work and, honestly, that made all the difference in the world to me. She made me confident in my abilities, and I do want to go into web design when I’m older because of her.” Check it out for more about Brandy.

Today’s Champion is Quinton Black! Black is a coach at Cedar Ridge High School. In this video, Nolan Ferree, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Coach Black is his champion. “I’ve only been here for two years, but Coach Black has already taught me how to be a better leader, smarter with my grades, and to participate in service hours,” said Ferree.

Watch the video to find out more about Nolan’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Marshall Williams! Williams is a coach and US History teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. In the video, Jill Porter, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Coach Williams is her champion. “He gives positive vibes and is always happy. Coach Williams engages his students and makes sure everyone is learning and doing their best,” said Porter.

Watch the video to find out more about Jill’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Brit Coleman! Coleman is a World History teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. In the video, Hugo Ramirez, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Mr. Coleman is his champion. “He’s one of those teachers you will remember forever,” said Ramirez.

Watch the video to find out more about Hugo’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Neil Little! Little is the Construction Technology instructor at Cedar Ridge High School. In the video, Tyler Wigins and Trevor Maruscak, students at Cedar Ridge High School, talk about why Mr. Little is their champion. “He’s very energetic and fun,” said Maruscak.

Watch the video to find out more about Tyler and Trevor’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Jordan Gesch! Gesch is a track coach at Cedar Ridge High School. In the video, Jordan Ferris, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Coach Gesch is her champion. “He motivates his athletes with positivity, determination, drive and perseverance,” said Ferris.

Watch the video to find out more about Jordan’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Jason Senegal! Senegal is a dad. In the video, Isabella and Alaura Senegal, Jason’s daughters, talk about why Senegal is their champion. “He plays with us at the park and helps us with hard words while we read,” said Isabella and Alaura.

Watch the video to find out more about Isabella and Alaura’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Cathy Rollins! Rollins is an AP English teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. In the video, Sonje Olson, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Ms. Rollins is her champion. “She genuinely cares about education and will provide a safe environment and will respect your ideas and opinions,” said Olson.

Watch the video to find out more about Sonje’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Jeremy Trojacek! Trojacek is a football coach at Cedar Ridge High School. In the video, Anthony Reyes, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Coach Trojacek is his champion. “He’s helped me with both personal problems and football. You can talk to him about anything,” said Reyes.

Watch the video to find out more about Anthony’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Andy Esquivel! Esquivel is an English IV teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. In the video, Michael Trevino, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Mr. Esquivel is his champion. “He’s inspired me to become a better reader and writer. He can help you with any problems and will always make time for you,” said Trevino.

Thomas Hadley another student at the school also submitted a video about Mr. Esquivel. Hadley said “If other people see how Mr. E inspires his students to go beyond just classroom writing, and to become their own writers, they might also start clubs or set set up their own goals for writing.”

Today’s Champion is Kasey Misner! Kasey is a finance teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. “Ms. Misner has continued to help me even after I graduated. She’s just one of those teachers you feel comfortable talking to. I really feel like she was one of the biggest factors in me graduating with a degree from a good university.” Check out the recommendation video from Cedar Ridge High School for more on Kasey!

Today’s Champions run with the Track Team at Cedar Ridge High School! In the video, Taylor Repa, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why the Track Team runners are her champions. “They work really hard and push themselves and others,” said Repa.

Watch the video to find out more about Taylor’s champions!

Today’s Champion is Nikki Pacquing! Pacquing is Marc Lucas Pacquing’s sister. In the video, Marc, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Nikki is his champion. “She is smart, kind, talented, and helpful,” said Pacquing of his sister.

Watch the video to find out more about Marc’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Kristi Mitchell! Mitchell is a leader of the PALS Program at Cedar Ridge High School. In this video, Allie Turner, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Mrs. Mitchell is her champion. “She is very honest and genuine. I can talk to her about anything,” said Turner.

Watch the video to find out more about Allie’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Kelly Foster! Foster is a graphic design teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. In the videos, Peter Nguyen and Ryan O’Malley, students at Cedar Ridge High School, talk about why Mr. Foster is their champion.

“Before taking this class, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my future, but Mr. Foster helped me realize that graphic design is a great creative outlet that can be very fun,” Nguyen said. “Mr. Foster showed me that hard work pays off and helped me realize my potential. He has allowed me to become a better designer and individual,” O’Malley said.

Watch the videos to find out more about Peter and Ryan’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Ryan Brittain! Brittain is the wind symphony band director and conductor at Cedar Ridge High School. In this video, Russel Peterson, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Mr. Brittain is his champion. “[Mr. Brittain] always says what we learn in music can be applied to regular life… all perseverance put towards music can be put towards academics,” said Peterson.

Watch the video to find out more about Russel’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Audrey Gonzales! Gonzales is a chemistry teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. In this video, Chad Warner and Sangavi Ganesh, students at Cedar Ridge High School, talk about why Ms.Gonzales is their champion. “She keeps the class entertaining and fun,” said Warner.

Watch the video to find out more about Chad and Sangavi’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Eric Soloman! Soloman is a math teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. In this video, Myka Pena, a student at Cedar Ridge High School, talks about why Mr. Soloman is her champion. “He gives up a lot of personal time to ensure that his students know the topic,” said Pena.

Watch the video to find out more about Myka’s champion!

Today’s Champion is Nicole Daugereaux! Nicole is a science teacher and mentor at Cedar Ridge High School. Each day she supports and helps her students. “She made my high school life so much easier, so much more enjoyable for me. I could come to her for everything, even other subjects.” Check out the recommendation video from the Cedar Ridge High School for more on Nicole!

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Mai Theingi Tun Than. Mai is a Parent Support Specialist for the Burmese families in the Austin Independent School District. She helps the Burmese refugee community navigate the admittedly complex school system, and related public and private agencies. Mai’s efforts include helping refugee families facilitate school enrollment and teaching the Burmese community about services available through the District and on their individual campuses. She provides Burmese interpretation in many school settings but is most invaluable during student/parent/teacher conferences. Mai provides both direct interpretation and coordination with other interpreters. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Mai works beyond the scope of her duties with AISD and does home visits after working hours to ensure access to information. She is tireless and eagerly works with other agencies to help develop materials in Burmese for her community. She truly is an inspiration and a joy to work with.”

Today’s Champion is Brady Roberts! Brady is a student at Cedar Ridge High School. “I would always go to him for help, and a lot of times he would be really patient with me.”

Check out the recommendation video from Cedar Ridge High School for more!

Today’s Champion is Hattie Bowman! Hattie is an art teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. “Ms. Bowman is nice, helpful, and it is her guidance that inspires me to be a better artist and to pursue a career in art.” For more on Ms. Bowman check out her recommendation video.

Today’s Champion is Glenn Clark! Glenn is a former servicemen from Round Rock, Texas. “He’s a very strong person and is extremely self motivated. I think he’s shaped me as a person, growing up with someone who is just as strong and as talented and willful as he is.” Check out the recommendation video for more on Glenn!

Today’s Champion is Quain Barfield! “My Dad really inspired me when I was growing up… he made me realize that I am just as worthy as other kids.” Take a look at the recommendation video from Cedar Ridge High School for more on Quain!

Today’s Champion is Lynn Hernandez! Lynn is a parent in Round Rock, Texas who motivates and helps her children each day. “My mom plays a big role in my life by caring for me and helping me succeed in school. When I wasn’t taking school serious, my mom was there day by day helping me.” Check out the recommendation video for more on Lynn.

Today’s champion is Monica Aguirre! Monica is a mother and a healthcare professional in Round Rock, Texas. Each day she motivates and inspires her kids, her recommendation video said, “When you think about what a Mom does, it’s amazing. She [Monica Aguirre} has supported and motivated me through everything. There was a time when I just didn’t want to go to school anymore, and I started skipping a lot- it was my Mom who really got me back on track.” For more on Monica check out her recommendation video.

Today’s Champion is Rachel Ringeisen! Rachel is an orchestra teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. The recommendation video submitted said, “She taught me it’s okay to make mistakes – that’s how we learn and improve.” Check it out for more on Rachel!

Today’s Champions are Mr. and Mrs. Washington, nominated by their daughter, Ashley Brown, a student at Cedar Ridge High School. “My parents encourage me to do my best in school. They also inspire me to work as hard as them. My champions have shown me the way to be successful.” Check out the video for more!

Today’s champion is Eric Elmore! Eric is a math teacher at Cedar Ridge High School. The recommendation video submitted by Cedar Ridge High School said, “He showed me what high school is all about, how you have to work for what you want. He’s the kind of teacher that will sit down with you and help.” Check it out for more on Eric!

Today’s Champion is Candace Briceno-Connolly! Candace is an art teacher at Cedar Ridge High School and supports her students everyday in the arts and beyond. “She took me under her wing, and not only cultivated my artistic talents, but made sure I stayed on task, both socially and academically. Ms. Briceno made me a more confident person, and taught me that it’s okay to be yourself.” Check out the recommendation videos for more on Candace!

Today’s Champion is Raasin McIntosh! Raasin is an ESL teacher at Cedar Ridge High School in Round Rock, Texas. She motivates and supports her students each day to do their best and graduate. “Whenever I feel like I want to give up, because something isn’t working or going my way, she tells me don’t give up. Ms. McIntosh is an amazing person. The things that she is teaching me are really going to help me later in life.”

Today’s Champion is Javier Hernandez! Javier is the deputy sheriff at a middle school in Manor, Texas, and has served as a mentor to students in the community. “Ever since I met him in 6th grade, he’s been a mentor and he’s inspired me. He has always been a person that will help me out no matter what the situation is.” Check out the recommendation videos for more on Javier!

Today’s Champion is Kristie Copeland! Kristie is the theater director at Cedar Ridge High School and everyday supports her students. “From day one Ms. Copeland has taken me under her wing, and been there for me through everything. She’s always inspired me to keep going. She’s always told us just to go for it.” Check out the recommendation video for more on Kristie and her contributions to the community!

Today’s Champions are Mr. and Mrs. Gonzalez from Round Rock, Texas. “They came here to live a good life, but they didn’t just come here to give themselves a good life. They came here to give my sister and I a good life.” Check out the recommendation video for more on Mr. and Mrs. Gonzalez!

Today’s Champion is Andre Ferree! His recommendation video said, “If my Dad wasn’t in my life I wouldn’t have gotten back on track and become the student athlete I am.” Check out the video for more on Andre!

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Latinitas. Latinitas, an Austin-based nonprofit organization, is dedicated to empowering Latina youth using media and technology, providing direct digital media and technology training and esteem-boosting services to nearly 3,500 girls and teens across Texas annually, 2500 in Central and 1000 more in West Texas. Latinitas envisions a future in which all Latina and other girls of color are strong and confident in their image. Founded in 2002, by Alicia Rascon and Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, then-journalism students at UT Austin fed up with the misrepresentation of Latinas in media, Latinitas has served over 20,000 girls and teens through after school clubs, weekend workshops, camps and conferences at 112 Austin schools, libraries and community centers generating content for Latinitas magazine, still the first and only magazine made for and by young Latinas.

The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “For 13 years Latinitas has been empowering girls using media and technology, securing diverse voices in media, providing much needed digital access and training to communities of color and all under the theme of celebrating identity and culture. They bridge that divide between Austin’s prosperity and young communities of color.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Vanessa Flores. Flores is a counselor at KIPP Austin Collegiate. She finds ways to help students no matter what their circumstance.

The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “She is a great counselor and many students at our school benefit from talking to her. Sometimes one just needs a friend and she can be that. She has always been there for me and throughout school. She never stops helping people who need it. She is a great role model for our school and should be recognized all day every day. “

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Thomas Martir. Thomas is an AmeriCorps College Forward division counselor at Crockett High School. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “He is a champion because he has always been there for me in the hardest times. Many times I’ve wanted to give up on going to college but he has always picked me up and helped me keep going. He motivates me and helps me with the struggles of figuring out my future. He’s always been there for me and I can never thank him enough.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Christel Sullivan. Christel is a teacher at Harmony School of Excellence. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Not only is she a wonderful teacher, she also takes the time to connect with the students and really give them a different way of education.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Allison Rich. Rich is a University of Texas Student majoring in Mechanical Engineering and is a Robotics Mentor for girls who are in The Lady Cans, an all girls robotics team located in the greater Austin area. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Allison is my mentor and she has helped me gain more confidence, improve my leadership skills, and helped me figure out what I want to do when I get older. She also encourages me to pursue what I love.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Jon Bailey. Bailey is the assistant principal at Gus Garcia Young Men’s Leadership Academy and works with students, staff, and parents. He also encourages students with the drumline and pushes students to do well and be responsible. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Other would benefit to know that there is someone out there that is teaching us what it means to be a young man. How to be responsible, good, and a future leader.”

Today’s Champion is Alexander (Xander) Christou. Alexander is in the seventh grade at Fulmore Middle school. He started an initiative, Hooked By Books, in which he partners with publishers to provide a free book to each child in an at-risk elementary school. He has a book review blog, foreverbookish.com, writes for well-known blog “Page to Premiere,” plays soccer, is member of Book People’s Teen Press Corps, attends book conferences & author events, and is the co-editor of school literary magazine. The recognition letter by the community said: “Xander’s pluck and social entrepreneurship is a lesson for all of us – that no matter what your age, you can be driven by your gifts and passions and share them with the world to make it a better place. Powerful voices come from every age, every corner of the world, every gender, race and creed. Just touching one life can make all the difference in the world, and setting goals and trying to reach them using creativity and compassion rather than keeping your gifts to yourself can start a fire that burns for a long time, both in yourself and in those you serve. Being proud of being “different,” being an individual and standing up for yourself takes guts and intelligence and grit.”

Today’s Champion are Communities In Schools of Central Texas AmeriCorps Members. Communities In Schools of Central Texas AmeriCorps members serve for 10 months as tutors and mentors on local school campuses with the highest concentrations of students living in poverty. The support they provide empowers students to succeed in school. AmeriCorps is a strong National Service program and others would benefit from knowing about this story and the opportunities that AmeriCorps offers across the country. Due to their experience with the CIS of CT AmeriCorps program, some of our members have changed their career path towards a life in social work or teaching. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “The members serve tirelessly as mentors and tutors to remove barriers that may be preventing their students from being successful in school. By working right on local school campuses, CIS of CT AmeriCorps members meet students where they are and they provide regular, ongoing supports that students can count on. CIS of CT AmeriCorps members act as caring, adult role models. They are invested in the success of the students they work with. Thanks to the CIS of CT AmeriCorps program, Communities In Schools serves an extra 1,200 students every year.”

Today’s Champion is Bako Ambianda. Bako is an author, speaker, entrepreneur, philanthropist and an engineering student. He is the author of Destined to Win in the Game of Life, a self-improvement book that provides a blueprint of how people can tap into their potentials. He was a 2014 Global Student Entrepreneur Awards Competitor and has served as the Vice President of Public Relations for the University of Texas At Austin Sciences Toastmasters. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “What began as a young man’s desire to overcome his own physical and emotional obstacles has grown into his mission to help people reach their highest potential and obtain their greatest goals. He delivers a high energy message that tells people through firsthand experience on how to live up to their full potential.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Les Brown. Brown is a renowned public speaker, author and television personality. He has risen to national prominence by delivering a high energy message which tells people how to shake off mediocrity and live up to their greatness. He is motivating and training today’s generation to be achievers and leaders. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “I discovered Les Brown just by searching motivational videos online. As I watched his videos, they were so touching that I decided to order one of his books, LIVE YOUR DREAMS. As I read through the book, the stories touched my life. I felt he had walked through many experiences I could relate with. I felt he wrote that book for me. I developed a stronger vision for my life. Now, I embrace a personal philosophy that goes hand-in-hand to make a positive difference in people’s lives.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Megan Sheffield. Megan Sheffield is an immigration lawyer that has been advocating for undocumented students and families. Megan volunteers regularly to organize DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) educational forums and clinics. She often takes pro-bono cases and defends families. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Her kindness and advocacy for immigrant families is an inspiration. Megan is a tireless advocate and makes a point to getting to know and build strong relationships with the families and students she helps.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Stephanie Bonnet-Kramer. Stephanie is the Early Childhood Program Administrator for Hays CISD. She manages the eight campus based Early Learning Centers for the children of district employees. She also provides leadership and support for the district’s Pre-K and Kinder programs. In addition to that, she serves as the liaison between the district and outside agencies such as E3 Alliance, Head Start, United Way, Agri-Life, Region XIII, and other community childcare programs. She gives guidance and support to all early childhood students, teachers, and staff. Stephanie also assists in the collaboration between home, school, and the community. Using programs such as Love and Logic for Parents and Teachers, as well as many other resources, she also provides training to teachers, paraprofessionals, principals, as well as parents in the community. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “I feel as if Stephanie should serve as an inspiration for everyone to not only do a job, but do it well and with genuine pleasure. Her love for young children motivates her to seek out the most innovative and most effective information to teach and serve our communities youngest members. Her passion for what she does ignites in others to work as hard for betterment of the education of young children.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Bianca Neal. Neal is a Restorative Justice Coordinator with KIPP Connections Charter School. And she is the liaison between students, teachers, and parents. She is the glue that keeps things together and the sandpaper that smooths out the rough spot. She is an advocate for the student. Neal is a Champion because she tirelessly serves youth in her community. She has done it for a decade. She facilities conversations between students as well as students and their parents. In doing so she is able to deliver justice where it is deserved. Students appreciate this method of interaction and benefit from the conversations. Bianca went above and beyond her job responsibilities and created a speakers series at her school where she leverages her community connections and brings in distinguished and esteemed speakers and community leaders that educate and inspire the students. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “She is such a light at her school. The students and staff love her! None of this is her responsibility…it’s her passion. She’s awesome!”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is SaulPaul. A “Musician with a Message,” SaulPaul works as  a mentor and speaker encouraging youth to pursue “education not incarceration.”  He has taken his history with incarceration and has transformed his life into one that  connects with at-risk youth in a way that only a few can. He has volunteers at treatment facilities to help encourage and uplift youth on probation to believe in something better. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “SaulPaul brings hope and direction to young people using his own story and creative talents as inspiration. At TEDxYouth@Austin, in the spirit of ideas worth spreading, SaulPaul presented “Re:Start Your Life” to high school students. “Using his tasteful rhymes and freestyle raps, SaulPaul incorporates his unique style with his guitar and loop pedal; his powerful voice and brings his inspiring message to the world.” SaulPaul’s music allows him to capture the attention of diverse crowds to deliver a relevant message through the example of his own life story. From transitioning middle and high school students in metro Atlanta to a district in the backwoods of Little Rock, AR, SaulPaul’s music is influential. Touching the hearts and minds of students through live performances at home and abroad, there is social good in SaulPaul’s message. In classrooms, at professional conferences, or as a youth mentor, SaulPaul encourages positive decisions for positive results; using his story as evidence.

Today’s Champion is Joseph Baird. Baird is the Mariachi Director at Lehman High School. In his first year as the director, he has increased the musicianship of the program, and given these kids something to be very proud of. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Not all school districts have a Mariachi Program in their music department, so those of us in HCISD are very lucky to have the opportunity to join such an organization. The Mariachi groups have fun, compete, and truly represent their schools with pride.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Remy-Brice Uwilingiyimana. Uwilingiyimana is the Hot Spot Program Coordinator at Boys & Girls Club East. Known as the the pied piper, Remy’s association with the Boys & Girls Club began when he was an AmeriCorp volunteer with the ACE program at Oak Springs Elementary School. Remy is gentle, kind, respectful and when it comes to having the kids get some work done or follow through on an activity. The kids respond to him and look up to him — he’s an older brother, mentor, counselor and friend. Remy is responsible for running the technology program “Hot Spot” for the East Club and to assist with other Hot Spot locations by training staff and helping determine curriculum. He’s always open to new ideas, works hard and loves what he does. He touches many lives through his work, dedication and the respect and love he unselfishly shows the children in the Boys & Girls Clubs. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “It’s so refreshing to be around a young man of color who is so dedicated to young children. These children need a role model in their lives since many come from broken families, with no positive male figure in their lives. Remy’s story might inspire other young men to share their expertise in helping the at-risk youth in our community.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Sterling McGruder. McGruder is the principal at Gus Garcia Young Men’s Leadership Academy and works with middle school students, staff, and parents. His students admire the leadership he presents. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Others would benefit from knowing this because we at Gus Garcia Young Men’s Leadership Academy are getting a first hand example of what a leader does and how a leader makes a difference. Mr. McGruder shows leadership throughout the day and beyond.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Kelly St. Julien. Kelly is the Hot Spot Coordinator of the Boys & Girls Club of Austin and the Site Director of the Boys & Girls Club East. Kelly is a Champion because he’s been the typical Boys & Girls Club kid. Growing up in Lafayette, LA, the Boys & Girls Club was home away from home — a place where he felt safe. Kelly was able to grow and flourish in this environment where he was given the freedom to explore and build a computer from donated parts and a computer manual he picked up. From there he developed a usage and maintenance policy and ran their computer room once they were able to get more computers. He started running club programs at 14-15 years of age that still run today. Kelly wants his B&G Club kids to be able to experience what he experienced at his hometown club. He wants his kids to find something that they are good at and make the B&G Club “their club” just like Kelly did in his youth. Kelly knows the tough life that some of his club kids come from and has learned that giving children the structured freedom to find something that they excel at in a safe environment is powerful, life-changing and self affirming. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “This position at the Boys & Girls Club is not just a job, it’s a mission and you can hear it in his voice and see it in his face when you get him talking about his dreams and ideas of where he wants to take the club in the future. You cannot help but be inspired!”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Tammy Partridge. Partridge is a 3rd Grade Teacher at Steiner Ranch Elementary. Partridge tries hard to teach her class. Her students believe that she makes learning fun and interesting. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “She is an example of a great teacher.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Rhonda Hauser. Hauser is the Director of the University of Texas Priscilla Pond Flawn Child & Family Laboratory. She works and interacts with children, parents, college students, staff. Hauser is a champion because she truly lives to help those she works with and beyond. Not only does she come in to contact with children ages 18 mo.- 6 years of age and the parents and caregivers of these children, but day in and day out she mentors those adults that want to learn more about positive guidance in the early childhood space and much more. Many have found in her a true friend, mentor, advocate and role model. She has helped many families with the day to day transitions and struggles of parenting, but has also been there for families who have experienced divorce, death, homelessness, poverty. Rhonda is a Champion because she lives to make a positive impact in the lives of many. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Others would benefit from this because no matter the many different roles Rhonda plays she always puts her best foot forward. Rhonda does not sing her own praises but instead her character and work speak for itself and is demonstrated in the many lives she touches.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Courtney Seals. Seals is the program director of three Southwest Key Programs that service juvenile justice youth. In her first program she helps to coordinate Enrichment Activities for youth who are being served at a court mandated treatment facility. Her second program is a Youth Mentoring program that looks to link at-risk youth with volunteer mentors in hopes to help the youth successfully complete and transition out of probation, but most importantly for the youth to have a connection to a positive community. Lastly, she works for the Family Keys Program which looks to prevent truant youth from entering the juvenile justice system altogether. She works with her case manager to provide services to the entire family in hopes to re-engage the youth with school and their community. She is one of those service providers that the youth constantly return to for help and advice. She is definitely a champion that deserves recognition! The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “The greatest thing about Courtney is her passion. Anyone that meets her would be inspired by the manner in which she serves the youth. For the youth, to know that there are providers out there that genuinely care and will sacrifice to help them fulfill their dreams and succeed is invaluable.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Cathy Requejo.  Requejo is the supervisor for AISD Project HELP  (Homeless Education and Learning Program). Project HELP assists students experiencing homelessness to enroll in school and have access to academic supplies and services to participate and attend school daily. For well over a decade, Requejo has been the bridge between families experiencing homelessness and the school district. She works to ensure that school-age children are cared for and given the full extent of educational services due to them under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Act, and she works to influence policy that can better serve youth. The recognition letter submitted by the community said:  “Work with the homeless is by its nature a quiet enterprise but by no means is it easy. Cathy works with families in the midst of turmoil to not only try to secure their basic needs, but to see school as a safe beacon for the kids, and many times for the parents themselves.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Mary Yancy. As a practicing psychologist, Yancy is a staunch advocate for accessible mental health and wellness services for children and their families. She was instrumental in the creation of the Texas Child Study Center, supports the AISD Social Emotional Learning initiative, and currently serves on the advisory boards of the Austin Recovery Council, People’s Community Clinic and Caritas. She has helped wed the longstanding Austin ISD Peer Assistance and Leadership Program with new research and curricula on Socioemotional Learning. Her civic engagements have also included service on education, arts and social service boards including the Texas Book Festival, The Ann Richards School, St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, the Seton Fund and Arthouse. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “She knows that the true well-being of youth is based not solely on an academic focus but on a holistic view of development and experience, and she puts her own resources to work to make holistic approaches happen for all of Austin’s youth.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Ivanna Crippa.  Crippa works at Breakthrough Austin, non-profit organization focused providing a path to college, starting in middle school, for low-income students who will be first-generation college graduates. She is a huge advocate for DACA students and immigrant students, as well. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “There might be one or two people in this world that are more passionate about getting low-income, 1st generation students to and through college, but probably not more than Ivanna Crippa. Ivanna is a 1st generation college student, herself. Her story of being a young Hispanic girl leaving her home in Houston to attend The University of Texas in Austin is one to which many of our students can relate. Her determination and grit as a high school student applying to enough scholarships to cover her cost of attendance is inspirational. Her performance as a college adviser shows she’s leaving a legacy of students breaking the mold and finding their own voice as a college student. Ivanna impowers young hearts and minds, definitely making the world a better place!”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Dr. Paul Cruz. Cruz is the superintendent for the Austin Independent School District, serving more than 85,000 students and more than 12,000 employees. For more than 28 years, Cruz has worked in education. He has been a teacher, campus administrator and central office administrator in Corpus Christi, San Antonio and south Texas. Dr. Cruz was also a superintendent of schools in Laredo ISD, a district with approximately 23,500 students.The recognition letter submitted by the community said:  “Dr. Cruz is an inspiration to those of us who have immigrated to this country and who learned English as a second language. He instills pride in being Latino and has a story that motivates us to increase and continue the work ethic that as immigrants we come to this country clinging to.  Dr. Cruz has spent his career listening for and being attentive to the barriers that he has had the control to altar and take away for the families and students in the AISD educational journey. His leadership has allowed for many of these barriers to be removed and he continues to examine and create ways to ‘clear the path’ to graduation for our students and their families in the city of Austin.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Montserrat Garibay. Garibay, Vice-President of Education Austin, Montserrat is a world-class early childhood teacher, a National Board Certified Teacher, a vigorous proponent for quality education and support for teachers, and a tireless supporter for the right of undocumented youth and their families. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Montserrat has in many ways been living the American Dream, but she’ll be the first to tell you that good things have only come about through struggle. She, her sister, and her mother escaped a treacherous situation in Mexico when she was a little girl, they all lived under fear of deportation as she grew up, but all the while she excelled academically and seized educational opportunity. As an adult, she has been constantly giving back to her society by becoming a top-notch teacher and scholar. With her turn toward policy and civil rights matters, Montse has stepped onto a larger stage but always, her heart and mind remain with those who are growing up in the conditions that she once faced. If we can help those youth and their families live more secure lives, we all benefit from the talents and energy they have to offer.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Alejandro Góngora. As the principal at Decker Middle School, Góngora provides extra support and encouragement to students. He believes fervently in the power of public education to transform lives and communities, and approaches the craft of teaching with the sense of discipline that is requires, but with an eye toward cultural relevance and fun. As a school leader, his vision of a school as a community grounded in learning and culture permeates campus life. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Alejandro is a great leader and role model. He has had a long track record of providing challenging, engaging instruction to youth, and of holding all youth to high expectations regardless of their life situations.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Tiffany Woody.  Woody works with at risk students from Lanier High School through the Council on At-Risk Youth. The majority of the students that she works with are at-risk youth and have had one or multiple disciplinary referrals. Woody does group counseling, one on one counseling, visits families and stays engaged with the students and teachers. She finds ways to teach these students how to overcome some very difficult struggles and also to get out of a cycle of just being labeled as a “bad” student. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Tiffany Woody truly demonstrates to her students that her door is always open and that she is there for them. Tiffany is a reminder that it doesn’t take much to just listen and help youth how to overcome barriers in life that at times seem so large. Its the simple small acts of kindness that mean the world to her students and this is why she is a champion.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Dorothy Salas. When Salas began at Anderson High School, the school’s drop-out rate was close to 5%. As the Dropout Prevention Specialist, she has helped lower that number to .3% last year. She works with students, parents and businesses to help provide the resources students need to stay in school. She runs a Saturday program for parents and students to illustrate the importance of attendance in school and the positive outcomes for those students who complete their high school education. These sessions are always well attended and parents often site her help as the thing which helped them guide their child back to school. This year she has also worked with Anderson High’s new refugee population to identify community agencies which can support families new to our neighborhood and new to the country. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Dorothy is caring and honest. Students appreciate her genuine answers because they know that she does not try to “sugar coat” issues which impact their success. She tells it “like it is” and helps students to make good decisions about continuing their education. Dorothy is a very special person – Anderson High School is a better place because of her and our students are definitely in a better place because of her tenacity and drive for their best interest!”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Sarah Simmons. Simmons is the College & Career Advisor at Akins High School. Akins school has about 2700 students – mostly low-socioeconomic with many being the first in their family to have an opportunity to attend college. Simmons works to not only show students the path, but also secure financial aide and scholarships. Over the last few years, the school has gone from having its senior class secure a few thousand dollars in financial aide, to millions. It is her goal each year to make sure every senior leaves with a secure post-secondary plan. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Sarah truly shows our students that education is the great equalizer, and that it’s a possibility for all.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Linda Medina-Lopez.  Medina-Lopez currently serves as the Community Engagement Coordinator in the Department of Communications and Community Engagement at Austin ISD and is on the SXSWedu Advisory Board and the Bertha Sadler Means Young Women’s Leadership Academy Campus Advisory Council. In her role at AISD, she serves as a liaison to key constituents, district bodies and community groups and assists in ongoing relationship management with parents and community members and key stakeholders to better serve our schools. She is also the founder of the Young Hispanic Professional Association of Austin (YHPAA), an organization that provides leadership and professional development opportunities for young Latino professionals to empower and connect with the Greater Austin community. YHPAA supports and encourages higher education through college scholarships and mentorship programs while providing resources to members for professional, community, and personal development. Since 2007 YHPAA has awarded 2,000 scholarships to Austin area students. A proud El Pasoan, Linda also co-founded the El Paso Social Network of Austin in 2007 which established a fund with the Austin Community Foundation to provide scholarships for students from El Paso studying in the Austin area. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Linda continues to motivate and inspires others to strengthen our education pipeline and mentor our next generation of leaders!”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is China Smith.  As a mother, teacher, and dancer, China Smith is on a quest to spread awareness about the mixed nature and diversity of the African diaspora through contemporary dance. Her company, Ballet Afrique, employs a synthesis of ballet and modern blended with Afrocentric undertones to articulate the human condition and spirit through the unbounded art form of dance. She empowers and encourages High School teens in her classes to gain a college education while also being true to their dance career.  The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “She cares very much about young African Americans and envisions a bright future for them whether it be dance or their own passions.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Sevylla del Mazo. As a music teacher at Roots & Rhythms program, del Mazo teaches students to embrace their own cultures. Roots & Rhythms is an after-school drumming program founded in 2008 by del Mazo. With drums created from recycled buckets, the bilingual students of Roots & Rhythms collaborate, create, and have some fun while learning the basics of percussion. Thanks to a grant from the City of Austin’s Economic Growth & Redevelopment Services Office/Cultural Arts Division, this program continues to foster ties in surrounding communities and inspires hope for local children. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Her love and inspiration is contagious. Sevylla del Mazo has found that the most important thing she can do as an educator is to teach her students the love of learning. This is exactly what she does at Roots & Rhythms after-school program. She inspires hope for these bilingual students and strives to show them that what makes them different, also makes them unique, special, and worthy of a bright future.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is The Communities In Schools XY Zone Program. This program is a leadership development and peer support program that develops productive life skills to help students succeed in school and achieve in life. XY-Zone Coordinators engage approximately 400 young men per year in activities focused on the Five R’s – Respect, Responsibility, Relationships, Role Modeling and Reaching Out on ten high school campuses: Travis, Crockett, LBJ, Lehman, Lanier, Reagan, Manor, Del Valle, Hays, and Eastside Memorial. The effectiveness of the XY-Zone Program achieved national attention when featured in Leonard Pitts’ syndicated column as part of his “What Works” series. Pitts’ column was followed by stories on NPR’s Talk of the Nation and KUT’s In Black America. Communities In Schools of Central Texas was recognized as an organization that demonstrates a substantive commitment to access and equity for young men of color, and have played a critical role in improving the lives and educational experience for the students Communities In Schools serves. XY-Zone participants demonstrate improvements in grades, attendance or behavior; they decrease risky behaviors, increase volunteerism, leadership, and future aspirations, and they are challenged and empowered to aim high, get an education, and break the cycle of poverty. Outcomes: 90% of case managed students show improvement or maintain grades, attendance and/or behavior, 97% of case managed students remain in school, 92% of case managed students are promoted or graduate, participants are significantly more likely to report improved school/community involvement after engaging in XY-Zone activities. 400 case managed students are served each year and an additional 300 students receive short-term or crisis support. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “When you talk to students after participating in the program, they tell you how far they have come and how they couldn’t have made it through high school without the Communities In Schools XY Zone program. The XY Zone Coordinators who work with theses students are working directly on high school campuses providing direct service to students. These coordinators serve as role models and they give the young men in the XY Zone program a belief in themselves and help inspire them to dream big, work hard, and to achieve success after high school graduation.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is John Armbrust. Armbrust is founder and Executive Director of Austin Achieve Public Schools, a new school in East Austin that serves some of the most at-risk students.The mission of Austin Achieve is college-readiness for all of students. The school currently serves over 400 students in 6-8th grade. The recognition letter submitted by the community said:  “Many families, community members, and even city leaders are unaware of the disparity between public schools in our city. The more we can tell our story, the more we can work with community partners to change the tide of educational quality in East Austin. John has built a small but dedicated group of leaders in the business community, and has grown the school to already reach hundreds of families in northeast Austin.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Wendy Phillips Sturdevant. Sturdevant attended Lake Travis ISD from kindergarden through high school. She returned to the school district initially as a high shcool math teacher and now as Associate Principal at Lake Travis High School. She has taught accelerated math and also helped challenged students pass the State Mandated Exams required for graduation. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Wendy was always available before and after school for student mentoring, tutoring and general guidance. {She is proof of} the powers of love, support, hard work, determination and going the extra mile can result in success and fulfillment.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Tearsa Foster. Foster is a special education, social studies and ELA teacher at the Travis County Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program. She has dedicated more than ten years educating and empowering students who have been viewed as troubled and unreachable. Foster meets the students where they are when they enter her classroom, but sets high expectations for them which makes them strive for excellence. The majority of her students are academically behind and have experienced very little success in an academic setting. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Ms. Foster provides hope to all educators and parents. She works with adjudicated students who at times have learning disabilities and/or are emotionally disturbed, however she is able to reach them. Her approach in the classroom creates an atmosphere of enthusiasm for learning. It is a reminder to us all that sometimes it is not that the student cannot be reached, but that perhaps we simply need to take a different approach, and she does just that.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Yesica Diaz. Diaz is a College and Career Counselor at Eastside Memorial High School in Austin. She has 9 years of experience in the field and has counseled students in the following areas: dropout prevention, youth employment programs, career power programs, juvenile hall counseling, and college counseling. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Yesica is a great example that sometimes all it takes is just listening to youth and genuinely being there for them. Yesica is an example that it doesn’t have to take much simply the willingness to accept and be there for youth.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Ginger Morris. As the creator of the Greater Austin High School Musical Theatre Awards, producer/director/choreographer of high school musicals and mentor to musical theatre Students, Morris has had an impact on many students. She is also the Education Manager at the Long Center for the Performing Arts and the founder/ director of Texas Arts Project, a nationally recognized arts boarding camp at St. Stephen’s School. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Ginger works to make musical theatre not only accessible, but fun and memorable for young students who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity. You often hear in the news of budget cuts for the arts, and how young people lack exposure to theatre and music – but Ginger is making sure that doesn’t become a reality here in Austin. She is living proof that anything is possible if you work hard enough, and that giving back is part of what makes the arts community in Austin so incredibly special. She is truly an inspiration for lovers of the arts, lovers of teaching, and overall lovers of our city.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Gabriel Estrada! Gabriel assists with community organizing and school improvement  efforts. He worked for the Austin Independent School District for 20 years, 19 of those as a 5th and 6th grade teacher at Zavala Elementary in East Austin. While there, he was an active member of Zavala’s renaissance as a nationally recognized community-based school reform model. His efforts in Zavala’s turnaround included leading educator development, house meetings over issues brought forth from community members and teachers, and actively initiating programs that enriched the education of students. Currently, Gabriel is the Youth and Community Facilitator for Austin Voices for Education and Youth, a group that’s been working with Eastside Memorial, the high school featured in KLRU’s An Eastside Education.

The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “In his 20 years of teaching, Gabe shepherded many a student and quite a few families to a pathway of academic success. Most of these families are Latino and low-income, and Gabe’s role as a mentor and trailblazer was significant. He believes in public education and its promise to give everyone the opportunity to be successful.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Phillip Eaglin. Eaglin, a former middle/high school teacher is the Founder & CEO of Changing Expectations, which provides informal STEM education learning opportunities for youth. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Phillips is an active advocate for young men of color and the importance of education. He has a perspective on his work that is firmly grounded in his own history as a science classroom teacher and as a professional development provider for science and mathematics education as well as for systemic school improvement. Phillip is strongly committed to supporting the STEM teaching and learning of high-need, traditionally underserved student populations, their parents, and their teachers.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Melissa Arasin. Arasin is a teacher at the International High School, a two-year program for recent immigrants in the Austin ISD. She becomes their motivator, translator, and she helps her kids explore the opportunities open to them in American society.  The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “The International HS does important work but it’s tucked away on the campus of the much better-known Eastside Memorial HS in far East Austin. Melissa would be lauded for her efforts no matter where she taught but the fact that she loves her work and the kids who come to her from around the globe keeps her plugging away.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Ty Davidson. Davidson is the principal at Travis High School. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Ty is warm, generous, compassionate, and most importantly, enthusiastic and possibilities and potential of his students and faculty. He brings a youthful energy and spirit to a job that can be incredibly taxing and at times, demoralizing.”

KLRU shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Susan Dawson. Dawson, Executive Director of E3 Alliance, is an advocate of educational excellence and data driven decision making for education system reform. The E3 Alliance has been at the forefront of raising awareness about the dropout crisis, contributing factors, and promising trends. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “The information which E3 presents should be understood by anyone who is trying to positively intervene in the lives of at risk youth.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Deanna Deolloz. Deolloz has been a teaching artist for over 15 years working with organizations such as CHULA League, ZACH Theatre, Teatro Vivo, and El Teatro Campesino. Currently her role as Artistic Associate of Creative Action she works at the after-school program at Becker Elementary. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “She is a committed community activist for women’s rights, voter rights, AIDS activist, cycling, children and Latino issues. Austin is extremely lucky to have her in our community. She’s one of the those “behind the scenes” leaders who is absolutely worthy of being recognized as a champion.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Isaac Torres.  Torres is the Program Coordinator for Generation Texas in the Center for P-16 Initiatives at Texas State University. Torres works throughout Central Texas by visiting high schools throughout Central Texas which serve predominantly low-income, first generation, and immigrant students to advocate for college access. He is the chair of the Outreach and Communication subcommittee chair of the Austin College Access Network and is spearheading the efforts to launch a “College Signing Day” in Austin. This event focuses on engaging stakeholders throughout Central Texas in support of college access for all students to increase the college enrollment rate to 70%. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “This goal of 70% college enrollment can never be attained through the current and never ceasing efforts of the community of educators and practitioners who live into this mission daily. We can only do this as a community-wide endeavor. GenTX and the efforts of Isaac are pivotal to attaining this goal. Isaac has been a longtime champion for this effort and he continues to lead the community forward toward realizing this goal.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Mary Brinkman. Brinkman, Principal at Sci-Tech Preparatory, works with students, parents, teachers and the community for success and to provide a safe-haven for students. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Mrs. Brinkman is always professional and strives for excellence in our school. It is a joy to follow in her example everyday and our student body rises to greatness because of her positive example.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Aisha Wahab. Wahab is a community organizer and champion of many social issues including work as Executive Director of the United Democratic Campaign, Board member of the Afghan Coalition and Communications Chair of New Leaders Council-Oakland. She has mentored many young women in local high schools, she has educated many service providers on the issues of cultural sensitivity, refugees, immigrants, and on topics such as domestic violence, human trafficking, and civic engagement. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Aisha has always includes others to be a part of a conversation to make a difference. She is a true champion.  She is relentless and always has a positive attitude.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Grant Thomas. Thomas is founder of the Peer Assistance and Leadership Program, a life-long educator and an innovator. After years of teaching high school, Thomas established the original PAL program (Peer Assistance and Leadership) in AISD in 1980. The PAL program was a unique model at the time, sharing many aspects of the current Social-Emotional Learning curriculum with a focus on peer modeling, mentoring, service, social understanding and problem-solving. PAL became a widely implemented national model. In 1994 Grant created the nonprofit YouthLaunch, and served there as Executive Director for nine years. He also continues to be active in KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) Austin, and is currently involved in a collaboration between KIPP and UT Austin Plan II to develop mentoring partnerships. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Grant Thomas’s passion for empowering young people is life-long and contagious, as is his high-energy, charismatic personality. This passion, combined with expertise gleaned from years of graduate study in education, experiences as a teacher, community activist, and program innovator, makes Grant an inspired and inspiring difference-maker. His work in the field has helped countless young people build both academic and social success.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Alexus Robinson. Robinson, a Student at Eastside Memorial High School, is an active member of her school’s Student Ambassadors program, Choir, Student Council, Velocity Prep Program and Panther Passion Club. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Her commitment to see positive change at her school is infectious to her peers and others. One cannot stand idly by Alexus and not feel the desire to want to make a difference in the world. Champions are defined by their legacy, what they leave behind for others. It is safe to say that she will leave a legacy for all to live and learn by. Our society can only be filled with hope for the future with young champions like Alexus leading the way. Age is irrelevant when the passion to make a difference trumps the status quo.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Maura Masters. Masters, a teacher of ESL and Ballet Folklórico at Austin High School,  both instills hope and sets high expectations for those who receive her instruction and guidance. Masters’ work with her students extends far beyond the school day, whether she is advocating for the rights of immigrant youth, seeking opportunities for current and former students, or prepping her troupe for their next performance. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Maura expresses an authentic joy and appreciation for the Latino cultural elements in her kids’ and their families’ lives. She is a great example of an educator who brings the home culture into the classroom for the benefit of all.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Jodi Granado. Granado, a teacher of GED prep at SW Key Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program, works tirelessly to get youth back on their feet after setbacks. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “As an educator, she knows that some educational success will help breed further success for individuals, and that will have ripple effects in their lives. As a caring, wonderful person, she knows that often times, the kids she serves are longing for stable, long-term support from adults in their lives.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Cortney Jones. Jones is the Founder and Executive Director of Change 1. This volunteer program brings together community organizations, non-profits, churches, and schools to increase volunteerism, mentoring, and fostering to those that are transitioning out of the foster care system. She is a social worker and  dynamic motivational speaker. Over the past 10 years she has advocated for youth and alumni in the foster care system and she is also a former foster youth. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “Courtney Jones is an inspirational leader who has overcome tremendous adversity in her life. Statistics show that youth that age out of the foster care system are less likely to graduate high school or pursue a college degree. Cortney has beat the odds by pursuing a masters degree. Her story is one of hope, strength and courage.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Karen Grampp. Grampp is a volunteer and coordinates Friday Backpack Program at Anderson Mill Elementary School, a Title 1 school in northwest Austin. The program provides food items for children to take home each Friday. The majority of these students primarily get their food from free breakfast and lunch at school during the week and would not have food on the weekends without the Friday Bakcpack Program. Grampp organizes a team of volunteers, primarily senior citizens from the Anderson Mill Senior Activity Center and the Church of the Savior, to both gather the food and pack the backpacks for the students. The recognition letter submitted by the community said:  “Karen Grampp is thought of as the one who coordinates for the nourishment of our children’s bodies. The work she does is more than that. She gives senior citizens a purpose. She is a mentor to children and adults. Karen Grampp does more than provide food for the children of Anderson Mill. She helps prepare a future for our community.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Terrany Johnson. For more than 20 years, Johnson has been a hip hop artist, producer and activist. He is founder of the Urban Artist Alliance, which is dedicated to the continued education of musicians. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: Johnson is inspiring because he is “an African American man born and raised on the east side of Austin, Texas who hurdled past obstacles to grow a business and a legacy. {He is inspiring to} others who rarely see that image to know it is possible to be what they want to be not what the media or others say they should be. He focuses on youth seeing an image of themselves doing great things to be able to break through constant walls designed to keep them back.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Favi Parrilla. Parrilla, a Parent Educator at Any Baby Can, provides case management services to pregnant/parenting moms. She works with clients one-on-one, most often meeting with them at home or school. She teaches them about child development, parenting skills, and together they set educational/career goals. She has also implement online literacy classes in conjunction with Austin Free-Net to help teach Any Baby Can clients basic online literacy skills including how to conduct an online job search. The recognition letter submitted by the community said: “It’s inspiring to know that one idea can turn into a program which can then lead to others having a better understanding of the importance of education. As a result of someone’s idea, some of Favi’s clients decided to go back to school and finish their GED’s and also land full time jobs. This story can inspire others to use their ideas and turn them into realities for the benefit of helping others.”

Austin PBS shares the inspiring stories of the people that are making our community a success! As part of our American Graduate initiative, we’re honoring American Graduate Champions that have been submitted by the community.

Today’s Champion is Joshua Moreno, a teacher and coach at Paredes Middle School.  In this video, Christian Palacios, a student at McCallum High School, talks about why Moreno is his champion.