SAVE Our SCHOOLS&PROTECT Our FUTURE

My name is Vanessa Paniagua and I'm an 8th grader at Urban Promise Academy in Oakland Ca. My school is a place were everyone feels safe, is a very strict school, and very small. We have many after school programs and during school programs too. Some examples of after school programs is graffiti art, homework club etc... Some during school programs are peer ed. this is a program that helps 6th graders understand gangs drugs and alcohol...I'm writing this letter to let you know that the budget cuts ain't just cutting money but it's also cutting futures. Urban Promise Academy needs funding for more art supplies and to have an art class during school time. My education is very important to me. My education will allow me to go to college, help out my family and reach all my goals. My family wants me to get an education so that I'm someone in life. The future of Ca. depends on high quality ed. for all.

College for All Experience

College for all was a totally new experience for me. I liked that we got to be with each other and educate ourselves in a fun way. I liked my room mate and the way we worked with each other in the activities. The tour guides were pacient and they had fun with us they weren't just serious they worked in a fun way. I also liked the breakfast we ate it was pretty good and we were able to eat whatever we wanted. That's what I best liked about the trip.

I will want a lot of different things at the college I apply to. One thing I will like for it to have is a Chicano/Latino center. Also an art building were I can improve my skills. It will have to have a high percent of people of color because that way we can let USA know people of color can do it and that we need them to help us succeed.