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Mapping Community: NormaJane S.

By Normajane S
December 31, 2014
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NormaJaneSoto

Creating personal maps is one of the first activities we do in Youth Voices. We asked the students at South El Monte High School to identify the places they spend time with friends, or places that have meaning to them as well as other key locations, people, and things. This begins the process of thinking critically about their neighborhood along with initiating a creative freedom to express ideas true to their experiences. The maps provide a visual narrative of their city and a possible vision for the future. To see more of their work click HERE or use #kcetyv on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Drawing my own map was quiet reflecting, it helped me better understand my community and surroundings and I started with my run-down-neon-pink house with a white deck.

The lot across "Burger Zone" it is a location I would like to see change. The lot is rundown and makes the neighborhood look bad. I think we should put a Starbucks Coffee there so that our hardworking residents can enjoy a mediocre cup of coffee.

Our South El Monte School's library is great places with color especially during the months of our Dia De Los Muertos celebration (Oct - Nov) during those days we hang beautiful Papel Picado that hovers over all the brown wood tables and chairs; and Skeletons danced around the book aisles creating a festive look. The main color scheme is Orange, Yellow, Red and Blue, along with skeleton heads running through.

My school and household have very personal meanings to me, because they are the foundation of my future and goals. South El Monte High School is the base of my education, because I've been involved in Drill, tennis, Associate Student Body, Choir, and as the Junior Class President, and Spanish Heritage club called Mundos along with my academics of having 7 periods for 3 years which help me excel greatly over my school's minimum credits for graduation requirements.

My home is where my family and support system are, and I appreciate them a lot. They have personal meaning, because I adore their love and compassion to encourage me to succeed in my goals.

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