Pre-Service Teacher Biographies: Leah Mandujano. She lives with her husband, Fabian, and her son, Benaiah in Houston, TX. She loves the beach and walking her rescue dog. She is studying at the University of Houston-Downtown to become an elementary teacher. CHARLOTTE ELLIS, 2nd year Graduate Student@ UHD Is a second year Masters of Education student at the University of Houston-Downtown. She earned an undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston-Downtown and wishes to pursue a teaching position in ESL after graduation or teach abroad in an elementary or middle school setting. She has volunteered extensively in elementary schools for both the public and private school sector and is certified to teach Vacation Bible School, which she does in the summer at St. Thomas Episcopal Church School in Houston, Texas. She has also volunteered as an ESL tutor at the Harris County Public Library where she trained and received their certification qualifications. She has also spent time volunteering service hours at the Consulate General of Spain in Downtown Houston and occasionally teaches Sunday school at her local church. Charlotte is continuing her studies as a graduate student here at UHD and was recently recognized as a distinguish writer for her contributions and collaborative work that has been published in The Texas Forum of Teacher Education-The Journal of the Texas Association of Teacher Educators. (Volume 2, October 2012) My name is Erica Bostic. I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Houston Downtown majoring in education. Becoming a teacher has been my dream since I was a little girl. I love children, but most importantly I love being able to play a major role in a child's educational path. My family means the world to me because they have supported me and my decision to become a teacher. I have three sons whom I love dearly, and they are my motivation in everything I do. Cynthia L. is a pre-service teacher in the Department of Urban Education at the University of Houston-Downtown. Cynthia is the editor and assisted Ashley E. in the writing of the short story within this book. Cynthia was presently surprised with the level literary talent of the group of teenage girls housed at the detention facility. Cynthia, a future Early Childhood through 6th Grade bilingual teacher, plans to replicate this project with her future students. Cynthia is of age 24, her favorite color is yellow, and she owns two Chihuahua mixed dogs named Charlie and Chelsea. Selina Salcido, age 26, is currently enrolled at University of Houston-Downtown and is majoring in Early Childhood Education to become a Kindergarten teacher. Selina Salcido, is the editor and assisted Ashley E in the writing of the short story within this book. She loves animals, especially her dog Bella. She loves spending time with her family and fiance-to-be; they mean the world to her. Also In her spare time she loves baking desserts.

My name is Henry Gonzalez. I was born in Guatemala and came to the United States thirteen years ago. I'm 25 years old and currently attend UH-Downtown to become a math high school teacher. Being part of the UHD Literacy Project has been a learning experience for me as a future educator. It made me realize that students want to be heard; they want to express what they feel and enjoy writing about their personal life experiences. It expanded my knowledge in other content areas and provided more experiences and knowledge to share with future generations. I'm really excited to be in the field and advocate students to make smart decisions in their academic journey. Maria Gonzalez was born in Houston, Texas. She considers herself very family oriented and dedicated to her goals in life. Maria decided to major in education because she enjoys being around children. She has an immense interest in childhood and human development, the way it works and how it all comes together captivates her. Envisioning the idea of assisting and guiding young minds into becoming lawyers, doctors, nurses, or professionals brings a sense of desire to share her knowledge with the future. Maria is determined to accomplish her goal of becoming an educator who brings knowledge, creativity, and connects with students.

Pre-Service Teacher Biographies Hany Carreno I am a student at the University of Houston-Downtown, currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in EC-6 Bilingual Education. I was mesmerized by the creativity and effort that the students put into this project. It was an unforgettable experience that helped me understand the need for creativity and inspiration in our youth. It was a privilege to work with these students and see them exploiting their creative talent. Romina Escobar I am a pre-service teacher in the Department of Urban Education at the University of Houston-Downtown. I assisted Jasmine N., Amy M., Miriam L., and Caymen J. in the writing of the poetry within this book. I was presently surprised with the level of literary talent among my group of teenage girls housed at the detention facility. As a future Early Childhood through 6th grade Bilingual Teacher, I plan to replicate this project with future students. Nazira Ghazal I am currently a student of the University of Houston-Downtown, perusing an Interdisciplinary Education EC-6 degree. I love working with kids, so I was honored and very excited to be a part of this great program. Being a part of this program opened up my eyes to how much our kids need guidance; I hope that one day I can work with children and become a role model or someone they can look up to.