Froylan Suarez, a first-generation CPS alum, grew up navigating the education system alongside his immigrant parents. As a child, he would translate parent-teacher meetings and help his mother advocate for his younger brother’s special education support. These experiences have motivated him to vote in the upcoming school board elections and push for increased funding for special needs services.

A Personal Connection to the Issue

Suarez’s mother was involved with his brother’s middle school board for 12 years, but language barriers often made it inaccessible for them. Suarez would translate conversations between teachers and his mother, and they would discuss the challenges they faced due to budget cuts. He recalls being anxious about the uncertainty of his brother’s education and the lack of resources available to them.

Suarez’s experiences have given him a unique perspective on the importance of representation and access to education. He believes that a good education allows students to explore different perspectives and understand the complexities of historical events. As he grew older, he realized that systemic barriers limited access to quality education, particularly for first-generation students like himself.

Now, Suarez is using his voice to advocate for change. He wants to represent students and families who face similar challenges and push for increased funding for special needs services. With the upcoming school board elections being the first fully elected in 30 years, Suarez sees an opportunity to make a difference and create positive change in the system.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.