Name: My story, from gangland daughter to star teacher
Uploaded: 2013-05-08T15:05:00Z
Duration: 7 min 50 s
Description: Pearl Arredondo grew up in East Los Angeles, the daughter of a high-ranking gang member who was in and out of jail. Many teachers wrote her off as having a problem with authority. Now a teacher herself, she's creating a different kind of school and telling students her story so that they know it's okay if sometimes homework isn't the first thing on their minds.

Pearl Arredondo: My story, from gangland daughter to star teacher

My story, from gangland daughter to star teacher

Pearl Arredondo grew up in East Los Angeles, the daughter of a high-ranking gang member who was in and out of jail. Many teachers wrote her off as having a problem with authority. Now a teacher herself, she's creating a different kind of school and telling students her story so that they know it's okay if sometimes homework isn't the first thing on their minds.

Growing up surrounded by gangs and poverty, some students face challenges far beyond their classrooms. One student once came to class after being stabbed, determined to graduate. A support network that includes understanding teachers and caring adults can change the course of a child’s life. Building schools that know their students and adapt to their needs brings real hope and higher achievement.