Working Together to Succeed: Ethan’s Journey with Ms. Perla’s Support

Welcome back to the CIS POP QUIZ! This is a regular, yet totally unexpected feature where we ask students, parents, staff, our friends, and partners to answer a few questions about what they are learning, reading, and thinking about.

Today we are featuring Ethan, a 4th grader and Perla Medina Cano, the CIS Site Coordinator at El Sol Elementary School. Perla and Ethan have been working together for around 3 years with reading, attendance, and self-expression as some of their main focuses.

You might recognize Ethan and Perla from our Fall 2024 Newsletter, where we talked about what “Being Present Matters” means to them.

Alright, Ethan and Perla, pencils out, eyes on your own papers. Good luck!

Ethan

What are your favorite classes?

Library because in that class, we pick out a book, be quiet, and read. I also like gym because I like playing tag.

Are you in any clubs or programs at school?

I am in the lunch buddies book club. I read books during lunch with my friends. We read “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” books, and we are reading the “I Survived” Series now.

Why is coming to school important to you?

To learn, see my friends, eat, work towards a degree, and play.

What are some of your hobbies?

I like to play video games like Fortnite, Roblox, Super Smash Bros, and Minecraft. I also like to play soccer with my brothers.

What is your favorite book?

I like the “Cat Ninja” books. I really like graphic novels.

Ethan and Perla

Ethan- What are 3 words you would use to describe Ms. Perla?

Funny, smart, and fun.

Perla- What are some things you are working on with Ethan?

We are currently working on reading, specifically showing expression while reading out loud and sounding out words and letters. We are also working on creating routines to improve attendance and knowing when and where to express yourself in a certain way.

Ethan- How has Ms. Perla helped you?

She helps improve my reading.

Perla- What are some of Ethan’s greatest strengths?

Ethan is funny and always lifting up the mood for other students. He is also a leader and reminds students about El Sol’s “HOLA” expectations. For example, when they are in the hall, he reminds them to get in a quiet, straight line. He is not afraid to ask questions, and he doesn’t stay down when he’s knocked down- he has a great attitude with life.

Perla- What are some main changes you have seen since working with Ethan?

He is more self-aware. He talks about his routine and behavior and is aware of areas of improvement. He is also more responsible and proactive at school and at home. He has gone from the one being woken up to go to school to the one waking up others.

Ethan- What changes have you noticed in yourself since improving your attendance?

I get more work done and I am learning more.

Perla- What are some areas you are looking forward to working on with Ethan?

Progressing. I like to think of progress as a bunch of little things, not just big milestones. I also can’t wait to see what he does in the future. I hope that once he graduates, he comes back and says hi!

Thank you, Ethan and Perla, for hanging out with us at Ask Me About My 12,000 Kids! If you would like to read more about Ethan’s journey with CIS and working with Ms. Perla, see our Fall 2024 newsletter here.