tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88375696353606131312024-03-13T18:05:34.428-04:00The Official Blog of Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.This Blog is written by Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr. and it will discuss various educational topics. The topics will vary and will be based predominantly on issues in urban education. At times, topics will include events in my life that are relevant to a multitude of issues. Opinions expressed here reflect the personal views of Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr., and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Rochester City School District as a whole.Mr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.comBlogger78125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-33265655561983228322009-08-15T09:01:00.002-04:002009-08-15T09:03:54.300-04:00What Do We Celebrate?First and foremost I would like to thank all of the individuals involved in coordinating and organizing this year’s Puerto Rican Festival. I enjoyed the food, reconnecting with old friends and the entertainment was pleasant. As I walked the enclosed layout of the festival, I kept thinking to myself, why are we here? What are we celebrating? What have I, or my community achieved that we are here celebrating so joyously this weekend? With these questions stuck in my mind I began to think about the upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs annually from September 15 through October 15. I began to think about what do we do here in Rochester that recognizes the importance and contributions of this nationally recognized month. The short answer… not enough. <br /><br />Now more then ever Latinos must begin to be a part of the everyday conversation. In fact, according to the most recent projections from the U.S. Census, Latinos are the nations largest ethnic minority at an estimated 46.9 million individuals. Given that, only Mexico had a larger population of Latinos than the United States. To coincide with this President Obama most recently placed the first ever Latina to the highest court in the land. The confirmation of Sonia Sotomayor, a Puerto Rican from the Bronx on August 6, 2009 was a historic moment for Latinos across the country. In my eyes it was a glimpse of hope that opportunities still exist for an often-overlooked population. <br /><br />I know our community has a lot of struggles some self-inflected and others systematic, but now more then ever we have individuals in positions to impact change. Yes, that includes me! What we have to do now is focus our agenda back on advocating for our community. We have to create opportunities for our community to help one another and be viewed by the larger community as an asset. Whether those opportunities involve community service, health outreach or educational exposure, more must be done. As a community, we should have a unified presence that has resources for all Latinos to look towards as an advocate or beacon of hope, regardless of political affiliations. In an era where many of our youth feel disengaged and the family structure has dismantled. I feel that we need to go back to the basics of educating our population on all we have accomplished and still have yet to do. We should be exposing our community to the various cultural practices that make us so unique and special. Our language, food and family traditions are important and should not be abandoned. As a community we should have monthly events that continue to recognize all things that make us Latino. We should be educating our youth on what it means to be Latino and in turn sharing all of the rich cultural history we have. <br /><br />I repeat, what we need is continual ongoing events that are both educational and community service based, events that allow us to truly be viewed as entitled to a celebration. So ask again, what do we celebrate?<br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-55799076746829536452009-07-25T22:22:00.003-04:002009-07-25T22:34:48.703-04:00Back to School<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.coconino.az.gov/uploadedImages/Health/2019524.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 220px; height: 113px;" src="http://www.coconino.az.gov/uploadedImages/Health/2019524.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />As I write this section I am sitting in the blazing temperatures of Orlando, Florida vacationing with my family in Disney. During my week here, one thing keeps popping back into my mind, that one thing is “back to school.” I keep thinking about the many things I have still to accomplish, but more importantly the many important things that students and parents can do to ensure a successful start to the school year. I thought I would take this month's issue to address some of my “back to school” recommendations for parents and students.<br /><br /> First, parents this is the best time to sit with your daughter or son and clearly go over their performance last school year. It is the best time to discuss those results before you head into the start of another school year. You should both clearly lay out some goals together and then periodically check on your child's progress as the school year goes along. Let me warn you though first, please don't make the goals just about academic performance but make sure you include behavior as well. <br /><br /> Parents, August is also a great time to revisit what is necessary for “back to school” shopping. I often times see many of my students coming to school with the latest and greatest clothing and footwear, but with no book bags, pens or calculators. I know it's important to look good, but if you don't have school supplies from the onset, then your telling your teachers and administrators that it's more important that you look good rather than be prepared for school. If you don't know what's needed for your school, then call them up and ask for a “back to school” supply list. I am sure they would love to provide one for you, but you can never go wrong with lots of notebooks, pens, folders and pencils. <br /><br /> Parents, I will stop here but I cannot emphasize it enough that our students don't hear it enough at home that being successful in school is the most important thing in their lives and that everything else will fall in place once they are successful in school. <br /><br /> Now, some words of advice to the students of Rochester. Let me first start out by saying I hope you have enjoyed your summer, but I also hope you have spent some time thinking about how you will continue your successes or improve on your past performance in school. I will keep my recommendations short and focused really around a couple of things, all which surprisingly you can control.<br /><br /> My first word of advice to you is that you take some time before school and get use to being on a schedule. What do I mean by a schedule? Well, what I mean is that you go to bed at a reasonable hour (no later then 10 P.M.) and that you wake up with the use of an alarm clock. Getting your body in a routine similar to school will help ensure that you are ready to start your school day fully engaged. <br /><br />My next piece of advice is that you start to read daily, especially if you haven't been doing this at all this summer. I don't care what you read, it could be something that interests you like a good novel or a magazine. What matters to your teachers is that you are reading daily. Unfortunately for you reading alone won't do it and you must take the time to also practice your writing. Again, I am not asking for much, but after you read something take the time to write a quick blurb about what you just read, or maybe it's a paragraph asking some questions that you have about the article or book. The combination of both elements will determine your overall success in school and in life.<br /><br /> Now for my final recommendation for all of you students as you get ready to head back to school. Take the time to take advantage of all the programs, support and opportunities your school has to offer. School is about you, it's not about the adults that work there. In fact, many of them are there to guarantee that you succeed, but they cannot do it without your willingness to succeed in school. Regardless of whatever obstacles you face, school is the one place that can help you move beyond them but you have to want it. I will leave you with this final piece of advice. I can show you all that needs to be done in order to succeed in school, but you the parent and student must take what I give you and actually do it! If you do your part, then the rest will fall into place. Have a great start of the school year and remember to start getting ready now!<br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-33218512715357151022009-07-25T22:15:00.003-04:002009-07-25T22:22:25.448-04:00A New Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.rcsdk12.org/schools/images/East.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 166px;" src="http://www.rcsdk12.org/schools/images/East.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />The summer months are often spent relaxing and enjoying time with your family and friends, but for me it’s a time to begin a new journey. In late May, I was announced and appointed the new school principal of East High School a surprise too many outside my family and close friends. With this appointment comes a new day for not only East High School, but for the Latino community. It is the first time in a very long time that the Rochester City School District has more than one Latino male leading a school. This appointment also puts me, a Latino male in a high public position that has direct access to the city's community. It is my hope that with this position I can help bridge the gap with many families who don’t see a direct association with our public school system. In particular, the Latino families who often feel underrepresented, uninformed and misguided by our school system. <br /><br />As I write this article, I have been at East High School for two and half weeks and what I have seen is extremely promising. I have seen students engaged and orderly throughout the school. I have seen staff and teachers working closely with students to ensure they succeed. I have also experienced award ceremonies that recognize the hard work and dedication of students, student- athletes and the families that support them. I have also been able to interact with phenomenal programs that exist within the school walls at East High School. School programs such as the Firefighter Training Program that provides high school students an opportunity to gain employment in the Rochester Fire Department after successful completion. In fact, five graduates of East High School were just inducted into service. East High School also has an array of National Academy Foundation programs that focus on business, information technology, culinary arts and hospitality and tourism. Too compliment those programs there is also a Teaching & Learning Institute that prepares and exposes high school students to what is required to become a school teacher. Once more, these are just some of the many positive programs often not recognized by the media that exist at East High School.<br /><br />With that being said, there are still many areas of improvement for my new school and moving forward to next year it is my hope to continue to build upon the successes currently at East. It is my goal to surround myself with dream builders that understand the challenges we have ahead of us. It is also my goal to continue to foster and build upon the strength of the Rochester community. I look to challenge and enhance the current partnerships with local colleges and universities, to ensure they are truly doing their part in educating our children. I look to enhance the educational experience of all my students. I look to create a high performing environment that fosters high expectations for all students regardless of their socio-economic background. Additionally, my goal is to create a school with a top-ranked staff that competes academically, athletically and artistically with those from more affluent environments. The task will not be easy; in fact it will be arduous. I often have to remind myself that the great pyramids of Egypt were not built over night but stone by stone.<br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!) <br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr. <br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-65579171091585362852009-06-07T22:29:00.002-04:002009-06-07T22:32:06.761-04:00Summer VacationThe weather has finally changed for the better and May’s flowers are now in full bloom. Another school year will come to a close and there will be thousands of youth looking for things to do. There will be another group of youth who would have completed the kindergarten through twelfth grade journey and will now be entering college or the workforce.<br /> <br />Let me be the first to say that just because school is out that doesn’t mean learning has to stop. For the group of students who have not graduated and are still enrolled in school there are plenty of opportunities for you to engage in academic summer programs throughout the city and county. As parents we have to make sure we go out and get access to every opportunity available for our children. Often times it is just a matter of signing up. It is significantly important that we do not allow our students to take a break academically because more often then not our students spend the summer months engaging in little-to-no academic behavior. As a parent or guardian it is your job to continue to hold your child to the expectation that they will continue to learn new things even when school is not in session. Parents must look for summer programs that continue to promote and expose their child to high levels of literacy and math. Particularly important is the exposure to literacy as many of our youth do not read or write enough during the summer months, which often places them behind at the start of the following school year. Even as an adult and college graduate literacy is still my weakest area, which is why I continue to read and write as much as possible. I know I will never be the best at it, but it won’t be due to a lack of effort. If your child is not enrolled in a program, then take him or her to your local community library and have them sign out a book or two of interests that both of you could read together. I can’t think of a better way to improve your child’s reading ability while still spending time together.<br /><br />Now, for those students who are completing high school let me be the first to congratulate you on your upcoming graduation. Congratulations you made it! For many of you, you are the first in your family to obtain a high school diploma. Enjoy and treasure this moment but don’t get overly excited because your work is far from over. In today’s economic condition it is critically important that you prepare yourself for college or trade school. I encourage you to not necessarily take this summer as a break but to use it as a transition period to prepare yourself for the “real world.” What you do this summer will setup your path down the road of life, therefore make sure you take advantage of every networking and academic opportunity available. If you are going away for college make sure you spend this summer with friends and family while still engaging and learning new things. In retrospect I wish I had prepared myself better for the rigor of college and spent some time reading more about my major or about topics that intrigued me. <br /><br />Lastly, summer time has been meant as a time to break away from the normal challenges of the school environment but given the poor educational achievement of many that break can no longer be afforded. I challenge you and your parents to make the most of your summer and my hope is that by the end you would have become more knowledgeable then when it began. <br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-84570390301248714122009-05-05T13:39:00.001-04:002009-05-05T13:41:03.695-04:00It Takes A Village...Two months ago, the community was hit with another immense setback. The Executive Director, of the Rochester Surround Care Community Corp., formerly known as the Rochester Children’s Zone had stepped down. Thus putting the organization further back and in my opinion completely out of reach of finally producing something that will affect our community. This was not only a huge blow to the fledgling efforts of this organization, which was initiated approximately three years ago by Dr. Rivera who ambitioned replicating what is still going on in Harlem; but it also is a devastating setback to our Latino community. This was the first direct concerted effort that I can remember by various organizations within this community to begin to have conversations around addressing the socio-economic barriers involved in educating our children. Unfortunately, like most initiatives that start with these intentions this effort has resulted in little to no community improvements. <br /><br />Now my reason for writing about this is not about putting down the organizations efforts, but more about raising awareness that this cause and effort cannot be lost. The old proverb and often-used rhetoric clearly states that it takes a village to raise a child, but right now our village is disconnected. Currently within our village we have only small pockets of individuals stepping up and making educating our children, and specifically our Latino and African-American students a priority. It is my fundamental belief that if we focus on educating our community and specifically those individuals of various ethnic backgrounds who live in the heart of the city that then, and only then will we see improvements in our city. This community needs an individual or leadership that is not afraid to put the critical issues at the forefront. A leader, who understands that the health, well-being and social environment of our students directly effects student achievement considerably. When I visit my grandparents who still live off “La Avenida” and I see abandoned house after abandoned house, or I see local drug dealers hustling just a block away, you can’t tell me that these conditions don’t affect our students abilities to perform let alone dream. The social problems and economic gaps our students live in are real, and must be addressed before we worry about implementing a citywide literacy initiative. <br /><br />It is my hope that regardless of the outcome of R.C.C.C. that someone or some organization of our community will come together to lead the blended efforts in educating our children. A focus on leveling the playing field for students who have economic and health gaps when they enter our school doors. It is also my conviction that these efforts must be lead by an individual who is specific about the intentions of bettering the lives of African-American and Latino students. A realization that the achievement gap isn’t just about those who live in poverty or are in a lower class, but more importantly a gap that has racial significance. An individual that understands these are issues of access and exposure that our current system is not addressing within our community and schools. Again, we know schools cannot do it alone and that education is the key to opening the doors of opportunity, but until someone is specific and targeted we will continue to have racial achievement gaps and efforts that will continue to die out to bureaucracy. I will leave you with this thought or uncertainty, if not you then who, if not now then when?<br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-28972664893278548422009-04-05T20:49:00.002-04:002009-04-05T20:50:41.121-04:00Fatherhood: It's Never to LateIt was 1990 and I was 13 years old, it was the last time I can remember my father being around for one of my birthday celebrations or better yet any celebration. Now, there are some things you should know about my father and me. First, we share the same name and secondly, we also share the same birthday. Like most, Latinos naming your first-born boy after the father is a tradition. Furthermore my parents were not married, something that has become a negative standard associated with our culture, and as you can imagine contributed significantly to his absence. In fact, my father didn’t live in Rochester he lived in Newark, New Jersey and currently resides in Florida. <br /> <br />Outside of these small intimate rendezvous around birthdays or holidays that was the extent of our relationship. I grew up without his presence. Although my Grandfather did an outstanding job filling the void, it is something that I still am impacted by today. Questions of why and images of doubt still go through my mind as to why my father was never really involved. At the time of his absence I didn’t know what to think of his lack of involvement, or what to say. I thought it was normal, because all of my other Latino and African American friends were also being raised by their single mothers and grandparents, again I knew nothing else. <br /><br />The point that I am trying to make is that the role of the Latino Male as a father within our community has drastically declined. In fact, according to the 2000 Census Hispanic women had a 36% rate of childbirths out of wedlock. This statistic clearly states that there is a divide within our family structure. A separation that allows Latino males to not step up and take responsibility for not only creating a child but also in raising them. We have lost the value of fatherhood within the Latino family structure. I am not saying that parents have to get married or even that they have to live together, but instead what I am saying is that the today more then ever the father must be involved in raising his child. Involvement doesn’t mean just paying child support or showing up on those special days. It means picking up the phone daily and calling to check on his or her progress. It means spending time reading a book, or coloring with him or her. It means showing that child, that although you are not living with them, you are committed to always being a part of their life. It also means that during good and bad times you will always be there.<br /><br />Presently, the communication between my father and I is still sporadic, and although we have never had any meaningful conversations about why things worked out the way they did, I do know he is proud of what I have become. I know that he acknowledges the strength of my mother and the commitment of my grandfather to fill his void. I also know that it hurts him knowing that he wasn’t around enough, although he has never told me directly, he has demonstrated it by his renewed attempts to stay in contact. Again, I know that it hurts because he could never go back and change the way things worked out. <br /><br />Having recently become a father myself I have not taken the role of being a father lightly. I know realize first hand the power and influence I will have on my son as a man. Lastly, if you could take anything from this small vignette of my life, take with you the impact and importance of being a Latino and a father. There is no time like the present to go out and change your approach and ensure you are a part of your child’s future. Ultimately, If you know a Latino father who hasn’t done their part please remind them of how important this moment is and that it’s never to late to start. <br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-89717086105144538252009-03-05T20:03:00.001-05:002009-03-05T20:04:56.792-05:00Latino Advocacy: Migente Please Stand up!The majority of my life has been spent here in Rochester, N.Y. and during all my years I have barely seen or heard a large voice speaking for the Latinos within this community. In my opinion, the focus has always remained predominantly on the needs of the African American community, and the media has contributed to this deficit by continuing to paint the issues in black and white. To the credit of the African American community they have realized the importance of being at the table and have positioned themselves in various political functions, which although not perfect has extremely increased the sponsorship within that community. The same cannot be said of the Latino community. <br /><br />Whenever an issue is presented in this community whether it’s violence, education, or economic we have no public voice. As a community we have not found ways to advocate for our betterment. As a community we continue to sit back and not realize that we have a role in this community, in fact we have a large voice that is yet to be heard. The issues and concerns of Latinos will continue to remain invisible until we begin to understand the importance of advocacy. The only way we will begin to change this unfortunate circumstance is to come together as one. To create unified partnerships with other Latinos and Latino based organizations. We must begin to work more efficiently, and find ways to ensure that we are always a part of the agenda. We must understand that advocacy must begin within our community. We must be willing to go out and support each other in public forums, to stand up for what is right not only for all of those within our neighborhoods, but especially for Latinos. We must begin to understand the role of education in all we do, and especially in it’s role of advocacy. <br /><br />Advocacy starts with knowledge, and as Latinos we must remain informed as a community. If we are not, we will remain and continue to be marginalized by society. Education, and in fact literacy has been the tool that has helped so many other ethnicities break through barriers within this country. It is the same tool, which has allowed many activists such as Malcolm X, Frederick Douglass and currently President Barack Obama to unite a group of people and bringing about change within their community. Simply put, through education all is possible. It is being informed and having access to different venues that has allowed myself to navigate the system, and it is the same tool that has allowed me to advocate for others and my family. I grew up in a single-parent household in the North Clinton area of Rochester. I was a Latino, who attended city schools who wasn’t supposed to amount too much, but through the advocacy of my mother and grandparents who had ingrained in me from the very onset of my educational experience, that schooling would open new doors for my Latino community and myself. That even though the road would be arduous what would come as a result would be far greater then any of the difficulties that I have faced, it is with this body of knowledge that I am now able to advocate for my community. <br /><br />Finally, what we need now is a unified coalition of Latinos within this community, a grassroots type effort of Latinos who will work together to ensure that Latinos do not remain invisible or silent. A group of Latinos who will encourage future generations to maximize on their educational experiences for the advancement of the Latino community and themselves, a distinct group of Latino advocates who will ensure that we have a voice and are present when it comes to issues of poverty, violence, joblessness and most importantly education. <br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-17150446438933442402009-02-21T18:43:00.002-05:002009-02-21T18:49:48.968-05:00Latino to Watch<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzo4AJTMAGYsVMW5FtNFGgL3rHzvZpLCts-jqbpAoqdAIsYNaw2BeG6aZ32uTY-xWhfwkK-MnrxLXryVzSFABf8KG0cH4kbB0StzQRO50I3yzCr4Etpkhx5eedsvXGG-5xm_AcniHNhI/s1600-h/Picture+1.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 78px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzo4AJTMAGYsVMW5FtNFGgL3rHzvZpLCts-jqbpAoqdAIsYNaw2BeG6aZ32uTY-xWhfwkK-MnrxLXryVzSFABf8KG0cH4kbB0StzQRO50I3yzCr4Etpkhx5eedsvXGG-5xm_AcniHNhI/s200/Picture+1.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305401846768735026" /></a><br />Recently I was selected by a new publication here in Rochester, New York as a <span style="font-style:italic;">"Latino to Watch."</span> The publication focuses on the Latino community and the issues or topics within that community. Check out this month's latest issue here: <a href="http://www.rochesterlavoz.com">La Voz</a> download the PDF on the main page.<br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-77835101163473349132009-01-25T10:47:00.007-05:002009-01-25T11:43:55.605-05:00A Message From A Former PlayerA couple of weeks ago, one of my former basketball players from my coaching days at School of the Arts wrote me. His message, which he posted on my "wall" on the popular social networking site facebook touched me. It reminded me of the work I do, and still must continue doing for others. When your working with youth, you often don't realize how powerful of an impact you have on their lives. His message, again speaks to why I feel so many of our city youth need mentors and advocates and how those individuals can make a lasting impact on their lives. Finally, his success is the biggest reward he can give me. Keep up the good work, and before you know you will reach all of your goals!<br /><br />Here is what he had to say...<br /><blockquote>"I c y u and P r best friends. Yall some deep brothers. Yall probably battle each otha 2 c who is the most deep. lol Well I am def living the dream. Living my life 2 achieve my dream of being a sports broadcaster/anchor man 4 ESPN and trying 2 live a righteous life 2 inspire someone else 2 show that dreams can come true by hard work and surrounding ur self wit good ppl, like u amade my life turn out so different bc (well as P tells it) me and someone else was the last person 2 b cut from JV (i was bad) but u didnt cut me. u gave me a chance & 4 that I am 4eva greatful. By me playing basketball u gave me not only an opportunity 2 do something I loved but a chance 2 meet ppl I probably wouldnt have met and gave me the confidence in school 2 step out of my little shy phase, (that as u can tell never went away lol) I had coming into high school that i had, but i wasnt shy bc pl knew me bc I played on the team & by u giving me the confidence 2 shoot the ball out there in the game changed me and 4 that I am 4ever thankful 4 u Coach Red! u the best coach eva. U wanted us 2 win basketball games but most importantly u cared about each and everyone of us personally as young men and wanted us 2 b good men. U wanted us 2 care 4 one another and play hard and those r values that go with u the rest of ur life, way way way past the basketball court. Ur a great teacher and heck of a shooter (until I get on u. I hope P told u but my new nickname besides Julo is the Red Stopper:-), ur just an awesome guy and everyone that has ever been in contact wit u feels lucky, like I do."</blockquote><br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-81876215906225354142008-12-31T20:39:00.001-05:002009-01-25T11:43:13.956-05:00Happy 2009!I want to wish everyone a Happy 2009 New Year! 2008 was a good year, but I foresee 2009 only getting better despite America's financial crisis. Good luck to all my readers! May all your wishes come true!<br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-88276751370692147622008-12-27T23:34:00.007-05:002009-01-25T10:47:22.270-05:00Happy Birthday Avery!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyo18FB4fBXAUSl3xaIZ4gjZNr2qbS8oO0Tpdihrib290ihztSRCV9jU8qZXqrl95J9XG41h-4VPPxf5vrkksn0pov8oZTPKbCHEZT2bN8mR2KvSPN8RnJaOEkVFWezhh94NjsrHrn3YY/s1600-h/PICT0153.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyo18FB4fBXAUSl3xaIZ4gjZNr2qbS8oO0Tpdihrib290ihztSRCV9jU8qZXqrl95J9XG41h-4VPPxf5vrkksn0pov8oZTPKbCHEZT2bN8mR2KvSPN8RnJaOEkVFWezhh94NjsrHrn3YY/s200/PICT0153.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295258140710568210" /></a><br />Today was one of the most important days of my life. It was the 1st birthday of my son, Avery. It's still hard to believe that a year has gone by. Watching him grow up everyday is a constant reminder that life is a beautiful thing. <br /><br />During moments of his birthday I found myself reflecting back to the night we received the phone call that he was born. Since that day, memories of excitement and pure joy have filled the life of my wife and I. Again, we are truly blessed!! <br /><br />As you would expect, he was rightfully spoiled by our families. He has everything and more that a 1 year old could need and most importantly we have him. <br /><br />Happy Birthday Little man!<br /><br />We love you!<br /><br />Papi<br /><br />------<br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-88985999629378156962007-03-27T19:01:00.000-04:002008-12-09T13:05:16.158-05:00Teacher Recruitment in Louisiana<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N09MgNwGmnnXSZc-3J2_aABJJQ8U5tbajXvFo5vpULy8SyeyOehjwkdT1BsidXaAOhjSCuoX-l7oTCwbw56_tUY3xKlE6E2gxT_QL09WzMkXWOk6MCL8GhmqQKikZHWQ8yDkzEd7kKI/s1600-h/PICT0002.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9N09MgNwGmnnXSZc-3J2_aABJJQ8U5tbajXvFo5vpULy8SyeyOehjwkdT1BsidXaAOhjSCuoX-l7oTCwbw56_tUY3xKlE6E2gxT_QL09WzMkXWOk6MCL8GhmqQKikZHWQ8yDkzEd7kKI/s320/PICT0002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5048626285337361074" /></a><br />I arrived yesterday in Baton Rouge, Louisiana for a four day teacher job fair. The job fairs are occurring at LSU, ULL and Southern University. Later in the week we head to New Orleans for the final job fair. I am looking forward to seeing with my own eyes what the current rebuilding state is in New Orleans. I think we often forget how much damage was caused by the storm and the number of students, families and schools that have been affected. <br /><br />In the past two days we have been fortunate enough to interview some highly qualified diverse candidates. What was initially surprising to me was the amount of other school districts who are also looking for the same type of highly qualified diverse teacher. Many of the Louisiana school districts face the same issues we in New York and other urban districts face, the lack of teachers who reflect the population we serve. I strongly believe that the minority population is only going to grow exponentially in this country and all school districts urban, suburban and rural. All school districts will begin to face the issue of finding teachers who reflect their students' ethnicity and culture.<br /><br />One new thing that I have learned so far during my current trip is that school districts in Louisiana are called Parish's. This is directly related to the community having roots based from the French Government. When I hear "parish" I immediately go back to my Catholic roots. <br /><br />I wonder how students back in New York would feel if their districts where now called parishes. Rochester City School Parish... hmm I don't know, I think it sounds a bit more sophisticated than district. <br /> <br />I look forward to the rest of the week. The food so far has been very enjoyable, especially if you enjoy seafood and Cajun. I will continue to post throughout the week please feel free to comment or email me. <br /><br />Living the Dream!!<br />Anibal<br /><a href="http://www.anibalsoler.com">http://www.anibalsoler.com</a>Mr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-21167738706436696122007-04-29T22:37:00.000-04:002008-12-09T13:05:15.936-05:00Birthday Weekend<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRJIIc3Hqdki1HWloI3cETdEbbp5TPykxYw2bn-TGwGGvqLrHHZoFDmB2GCIq_Nu2G6DlOw2cqyf8yQsDd4V4Mz8XFzDYvfpZnUAvvpwDsYKZa5ovI5RHpMJsuX8FT5HpmvYyQ-_xvVU/s1600-h/PICT0022.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRJIIc3Hqdki1HWloI3cETdEbbp5TPykxYw2bn-TGwGGvqLrHHZoFDmB2GCIq_Nu2G6DlOw2cqyf8yQsDd4V4Mz8XFzDYvfpZnUAvvpwDsYKZa5ovI5RHpMJsuX8FT5HpmvYyQ-_xvVU/s200/PICT0022.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5059047994862168978" /></a><br />Well my 30th birthday weekend has come to a close. It was a great three days that begun on Friday with a visit at school from New York State's, Department of Education. The State's Education Department was visiting our school as part of the process to help remove us from the "persistently dangerous schools" list. A list which any educational institution is not proud to be on. <br /><br />In retrospect I felt that the visit went extremely well I was the first person on the agenda to present. I presented to the "team" from State Ed. our schools' Microsoft Sharepoint Intranet site. I mainly focused on how we as a school our using this to increase our electronic communication and collaboration as a school building. I emphasized the power of having a digital library of resources for staff to reference from our site. I also spoke about how we use it to post school news, events, meeting minutes and weekly bulletins.<br /><br />The visit had other presentations and facets to it that I rather not go into detail about. I will end this piece by saying that the visitors were very cognizant of the realities of urban education. They understood the importance of our work and how difficult it is when you have a numerous amount of external factors that we cannot control going against us. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2E8NWYvSBhepnEKvaM2BdpzCm8Mhg5Krq3wZJhW4dZ_dYvpLpwxJCoB_UHABO5Qw1Q6fMwI2qZNUWwpFRoXOPgRI_QMKmcIJVUpFM4gLDZgO3LWSv3xeNceOisVgLWQcpDp-wrpjei_4/s1600-h/PICT0043crop.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2E8NWYvSBhepnEKvaM2BdpzCm8Mhg5Krq3wZJhW4dZ_dYvpLpwxJCoB_UHABO5Qw1Q6fMwI2qZNUWwpFRoXOPgRI_QMKmcIJVUpFM4gLDZgO3LWSv3xeNceOisVgLWQcpDp-wrpjei_4/s200/PICT0043crop.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5060432666548595618" /></a><br />The highlight of my weekend was my birthday party. My wife spent a lot of time coordinating this event. As usual we had a plethora of food and entertainment. My gifts ranged from educational books to gift cards. The highlight of all my gifts was a shadow box my wife created for me. The shadow box was a snapshot of my 30 years of life. The shadow box is unbelievably amazing and I can't wait to hang it up in my office at work. I have included a photo for those of you who may never have a chance to see it. <br /><br />Lastly the weekend ended better then I could have ever expected. I was able to spend time with those individuals who matter the most to me in my life. My wife, family and friends really know how to make every moment together enjoyable.<br /><br />Thanks!<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Living the Dream!</span><br /><br />Anibal Soler, Jr.Mr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-90560104035923346382007-05-03T16:33:00.000-04:002008-12-09T13:05:15.538-05:00Graduate Awards Ceremony<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Yb3z-nPjoUHT4T-VQUGjKXsAXY2GUUztyrCa3pJZ4juQ5dxpw0NNLCIK8krYmhsak1LXED4z1tI-MyFBeMMTcVWY-vTj5TQYgMAB31k7LFQaihAkq_2YnG_P3jFoFxFN8px32CSsjmg/s1600-h/AnibalGradAward.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Yb3z-nPjoUHT4T-VQUGjKXsAXY2GUUztyrCa3pJZ4juQ5dxpw0NNLCIK8krYmhsak1LXED4z1tI-MyFBeMMTcVWY-vTj5TQYgMAB31k7LFQaihAkq_2YnG_P3jFoFxFN8px32CSsjmg/s200/AnibalGradAward.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5061633268821617586" /></a><br />Last night I was privileged enough to receive an award and attend the Graduate Student Awards Ceremony at St. John Fisher College. I, along with many of my educational administration peers recognized for various achievements throughout the program. I was selected an awarded the "Who's Who Among Students In American Universities & Colleges." I was very honored to have received this recognition. <br /><br />While I was there I started to think about what is next for me, what will I do now that I have a Bachelors and two Masters degrees? Do I go forth with the pursuit of a Doctorate in Education? Do I focus on achieving my other goals such as guest speaking, writing a book, etc.? I am not 100% sure what life has in store for me, but whatever it is I will give it my all. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Living the Dream!</span><br />AnibalMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-41720777850011936722007-05-06T22:08:00.000-04:002008-12-09T13:05:15.306-05:00Graduation 2007<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLvopMIUFLlC7JfK_S9_wo4PMvzJERSJfxIOIpQBbScYp7P3zZWMRC2dqqPYq02WAcOdOiqegHE_q8MqqSFEcVSUuznNEEiMOEfbZ6se2Em7DWKfCmffDxZ2vO2FTMj7vUctwInbL1bqA/s1600-h/GEDA+Graduation+006.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLvopMIUFLlC7JfK_S9_wo4PMvzJERSJfxIOIpQBbScYp7P3zZWMRC2dqqPYq02WAcOdOiqegHE_q8MqqSFEcVSUuznNEEiMOEfbZ6se2Em7DWKfCmffDxZ2vO2FTMj7vUctwInbL1bqA/s200/GEDA+Graduation+006.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5061639140041911234" /></a><br />This weekend was St. John Fisher's commencement ceremony. For me it was the official walk across the stage and final chapter to my graduate experience at St. John Fisher College. It was also the last time I would have the opportunity to see my peers from my Educational Administration Program. <br /><br />Looking back it was a great 18 months spent together, there were a lot of ups and some downs during the program. I think everyone in the program grew and gained knowledge from one another. Another positive during our time was that a handful of us were fortunate enough to obtain administrative positions before completing the program and many are obtaining positions now. <br /><br />At graduation only 15 of the 28 members of Cohort 10 participated. I was somewhat disappointed with the turnout I think it would have been great to see everyone together one last time. Our Cohort was also honored by having one of our own deliver the closing speech to all the graduate students.<br /><br />In closing I want to remind everyone in my program, that I like the program have a lifetime guarantee!! If you ever need anything, or if I could ever be of any service please let me know. Good luck with your lives and careers I will be watching. Congratulations Class of 2006-2007!<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Living the Dream!</span><br />AnibalMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-67863954015619336952007-09-03T22:35:00.000-04:002008-12-09T13:05:14.836-05:00The iPhone and K-12 Schools<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzRuDeaUNdCO4sEhhmtcjLn3y0cc2ujZreA3bk9Jh-tGmJ0dec_ixH9GPdKiCMNS1I3x400as-84ryuMleQbLRm0HLOrU-2MUk1EktIbv5M9IGZtWzqiDLI1ouNganONQ2uzv8qXwKFk/s1600-h/Photo+119.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzRuDeaUNdCO4sEhhmtcjLn3y0cc2ujZreA3bk9Jh-tGmJ0dec_ixH9GPdKiCMNS1I3x400as-84ryuMleQbLRm0HLOrU-2MUk1EktIbv5M9IGZtWzqiDLI1ouNganONQ2uzv8qXwKFk/s200/Photo+119.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106172279382658210" /></a><br />It was about 3 weeks ago that I finally took the financial plunge to acquire an iPhone. Being the "digital junky" that I am it was only a matter of time before I got my hands on this innovative device. Let me see that the iPhone has definitely set the bar very high in terms of expectations for future phones. <br /><br />Apple in my eyes has set the new benchmark for mobile phones. <br /><br />Being an educator I can see a whole new world of benefits for schools, educators and district leaders. I can see this device take the place of the many "Laptop per child" initiatives. This device can do everything a laptop can do and would allow 24 hour communication between student and teacher or student and school. Obviously there are some legal concerns to consider but if done correctly it would allow for continuous learning to occur in and outside of school. <br /><br />I am thinking of a student who doesn't have internet at home, he picks up his iPhone to log on to the internet to do some basic research online. That same student may text message his teacher with a question about the homework. I am thinking the school could send out messages to its students about snow days, or school sporting event schedules, etc. The school could even send out reminders for SAT registration and so on. There could be a hotline for students to text message to warn adults about potential problems. Teachers or the school could have a site with downloadable podcasts for the students on various topics along with videos that they could watch on their iPhones to support learning. <br /><br />I would love to work with Apple and its education team on developing a model environment that could be reproduced in any educational setting. I would use my school as a potential learning environment. Just provide me with 25 iPhones, and 25 iMacs in a classroom and I will take it from there. One last thought the students could have a digital portfolio on their waist. They could show a mentor, parent or friend what they have been creating in class because of the total integration of iLife '08 with the iPhone. <br /><br />I think you can see my point the possibilities are endless.<br /><br />Steve Jobs, give me a call, shoot me an email, or text message me on my iPhone if you would like to expand your market. :) <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Living the Dream!</span><br />Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />www.anibalsoler.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-38623963682902335202007-09-25T21:46:00.000-04:002008-12-09T13:05:14.533-05:002007 Latino Upstate Summit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLBFs6Iv_suriAmztXaInOFri9qol7xcg2T-Y3Vt9_fwian1aqa9bAX-ZZp9vCk8Y-O47lmEZBQiirjoPPOH-Tm65ftcVvTrV36IYZeof1opaDaLHjBT77IHUrvmfMLamBKSCs-YGi9i4/s1600-h/IMG_0047_2.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLBFs6Iv_suriAmztXaInOFri9qol7xcg2T-Y3Vt9_fwian1aqa9bAX-ZZp9vCk8Y-O47lmEZBQiirjoPPOH-Tm65ftcVvTrV36IYZeof1opaDaLHjBT77IHUrvmfMLamBKSCs-YGi9i4/s200/IMG_0047_2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114324162291753506" /></a><br />This past weekend I was fortunate enough to attend the inaugural 2007 Latino Upstate Summit in Buffalo, New York. I was able to attend workshops that focused on various issues affecting the Latino population in New York State. The workshops ranged from Bilingual education to Gang and Youth violence to the voting process. <br /><br />Also at the event I was able to hear the keynote address of Dr. Manuel Rivera, Deputy Secretary of Education for New York State. Dr. Rivera made some interesting and great comments during his keynote. He focused on items that he is going to implement or have already implemented, items such as the Schools Contract for Excellence. He also focused on changing funding to schools so that institutions that have a higher need will receive the funding they are rightly due.<br /> <br />Another major theme for the summit was education. What other arena affects everything else in society, but education. Latino's like many other minorities are falling behind their Caucasian counterparts. Some of Dr. Rivera's comments focused on that along with some of the workshops. <br /><br />The event was the first of it's kind created to unite the Latino communities across New York State. I must commend the board of directors and everyone responsible for creating the event. It must start somewhere and I think they are off to a great start. The environment was very professional and great for networking and forming connections.<br /><br /> I am looking forward to next year's Latino Summit which is scheduled to be located in Rochester, New York.<br /><br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! <span style="font-style:italic;">(Living the Dream!)</span><br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-40407872504436032862007-11-23T08:19:00.000-05:002008-12-09T13:05:14.155-05:00Happy Thanksgiving<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkosghD-2uUrrL9SbCWMqut0BHwCJPb8dIbhnGQQPTzPRTZpAtM1bVpt9A4sOmVFwxi6Lxq61pvSp_VKyss-DDrPiKoV_q4CyMWU4x39Wve97xzkTYG0IFQXA9SffpCz8PqT4ktj4DTs/s1600-h/PICT0323.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkosghD-2uUrrL9SbCWMqut0BHwCJPb8dIbhnGQQPTzPRTZpAtM1bVpt9A4sOmVFwxi6Lxq61pvSp_VKyss-DDrPiKoV_q4CyMWU4x39Wve97xzkTYG0IFQXA9SffpCz8PqT4ktj4DTs/s200/PICT0323.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136025697961837570" /></a><br />Thanksgiving, is a time to make sure you tell those you love, that you are thankful for everything they do for you. Make sure you hold them close and tell them you love them. Make sure you thank yourself for doing what's right for those who are not as privileged as you are. Make sure you enjoy the moments spent with your family during these times. <br /><br />Lastly, thank you for being in my life! <br /><br />Happy Thanksgiving Day!<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Living the Dream!</span><br />Mr. SolerMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-72802504829949108462007-12-16T22:21:00.000-05:002008-12-09T13:05:13.925-05:00Becoming a Father<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJUJX049JzXAYhJF2lwGB7QR9l9iaQwC-7dQT7A1pqyZ-QxtviTNYla4s54eU8kdpRbT919wScl10N82v-5PF2KlP39DFDnPYFCidYIdLOnAuZnI64F7NGJ4tFRthYYeJt3LwXgRIt0rI/s1600-h/PICT0133.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJUJX049JzXAYhJF2lwGB7QR9l9iaQwC-7dQT7A1pqyZ-QxtviTNYla4s54eU8kdpRbT919wScl10N82v-5PF2KlP39DFDnPYFCidYIdLOnAuZnI64F7NGJ4tFRthYYeJt3LwXgRIt0rI/s200/PICT0133.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5144790365160677330" /></a><br />Those of you who read this on a daily or monthly basis know I do not often speak of my own personal life and usually stick to issues of education. This current posting I have decided to speak about what is currently going on in my life. Many of you are aware of my journey on becoming a Father but most of you are not. If you're like most let me bring you up to speed. <br /><br />After trying for two years on our own, my wife and I we were unable to have a child of our own. My wife and I decided to go another route to becoming parents, adoption was our choice. In just a short time after finishing our classes and social work visits my wife and I have been selected to adopt our son from Indiana. We are in the final weeks until his arrival. His due date is Jan. 1, 2008. His name is going to be Avery Celestino Soler. He will have the middle name of the most influential male in my life, my Abuelo (Grandfather) Tino. His room is ready to go and all we are awaiting for is his arrival. <br /><br />We received a call early Friday morning from the birth mother that she was having contractions 3 to 4 minutes apart and she wanted to put us on standby. Well the day went on and it looks like Avery is not ready to come into the world just yet. <br /><br />Well even though I am not currently driving on my way to go pick him up from the hospital in Indiana that phone call got me to do some more thinking about being a Father. <br /><br />I thought to myself oh man, I am going to be a Dad, officially now, the pressure is on! I got to thinking how my life will now change as I will have an all new purpose to live for. Looking back at my life I grew up without the daily presence of my biological father. He would visit on birthdays and special occasions but as I grew older those visits became fewer and fewer. I grew up mostly living with my Mother and spending a lot of time with my grandparents and in particular with my Abuelo (Grandpa). He showed me over the years what it meant to be a man and he often disciplined me through words, actions and expectations. <br /><br />I know think to myself what type of Father will I be? Will I be courageous enough to tell my son, I love him daily. Will I be able to prepare him for success like my Abuelo (Grandfather) did for me? Will I be able to show him that what matters in life most is what we do for others and not the monetary things we possess. I know I will have a lot of challenges ahead of me and I have some great examples in my life that will help me as I enter the world of fatherhood. <br /><br />Avery, I hope one day you read this. As the days get closer I can't wait until I have you in my arms! I want you to know that I will make mistakes as our journey begins together but understand that I am learning this whole father role. I will do my best to give you all the love and support you need to succeed, and if I don't please let me know. I know you may not agree with the things I do, but remember I am only going to do what is best for you and I have learned a lot from my own experiences. I can't wait to spend time playing basketball with you and hanging out like father and sons do. I may sometimes embarrass you as you can tell in this photo, your father likes to joke around a lot, but son don't take any of it personal. <br /><br />Lastly, hurry up and come into this world your father is eagerly waiting!<br /><br />I Love You!<br /><br />Future Father of the Year!<br />Your Papi!Mr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-49967494819293333742007-12-29T21:21:00.000-05:002008-12-09T13:05:13.614-05:00Dreams Do Come True!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9olJci6wa2z1zoD-QCFu-GRoQP9VvU8rJ-QZp-1AydDPxM0LiF23eEMK6O-lr6FgDJT51-HjPn7o5X1OodPhH7bp18zYIrR4MVWjwO2j_NdkuNVZ8LJg4t7M2fYeWqxYREip7yrS28Y/s1600-h/PICT0034.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9olJci6wa2z1zoD-QCFu-GRoQP9VvU8rJ-QZp-1AydDPxM0LiF23eEMK6O-lr6FgDJT51-HjPn7o5X1OodPhH7bp18zYIrR4MVWjwO2j_NdkuNVZ8LJg4t7M2fYeWqxYREip7yrS28Y/s320/PICT0034.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5149587822155472866" /></a>The time has finally arrived. <div><br /><div> </div><div>I am currently in Indianapolis, Indiana with my wife and my newly born son, Avery Celestino Soler. We got the call last night from the birth mother that he was born at 7:46 PM and was 8 lbs and 21.75 inches long. </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div>We left late into the night on Friday and after a short nap in Buffalo, New York we arrived in Indiana around 3 PM.</div><div><br /></div><div>The moment just before his arrival felt very surreal, and it became quite emotional for my wife when he was wheeled into the room. </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div>Let me keep things short, because I need to get off this laptop and go back to being a baby hog. </div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div>In closing, let me once again restate that dreams do come true!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Living the Dream!</span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></div><div>Mr. Soler & Avery<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div></div>Mr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-19467081007218921162008-03-08T11:12:00.006-05:002008-12-09T13:05:13.354-05:00Living the Dream: Back 2 Back Section V Champs!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOk2qmsEa1xIBCYSK00lWhnGQ3h51mJEEgEtQ5otau26dSORp7pWSA9iZMp0DeKe9oY04jIagoUyNAg1DrYgTQ2_s-S04_Ja1zMwF0ftxx5HJ3o7y9LjqWn8AWmHBo2w7GcCeMpw2Ptns/s1600-h/Picture+3.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOk2qmsEa1xIBCYSK00lWhnGQ3h51mJEEgEtQ5otau26dSORp7pWSA9iZMp0DeKe9oY04jIagoUyNAg1DrYgTQ2_s-S04_Ja1zMwF0ftxx5HJ3o7y9LjqWn8AWmHBo2w7GcCeMpw2Ptns/s200/Picture+3.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189548989478289266" /></a><br />Congratulations to the Charlotte High School Boys Varsity Basketball Team! They have accomplished what most student-athletes never get to experience once in their careers, they won back-to-back Section Five Championships. <br /><br />This team of boys have been together since middle school and their hard work, determination and commitment has paid off. They have help rebuild and make Charlotte High School a powerhouse in boys basketball. <br /><br />I wish all the Seniors on the team, good luck and we will be looking forward to their college careers. <br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-58202327848936950432008-03-14T19:57:00.010-04:002008-12-09T13:05:13.176-05:00Loss of Two Students<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqdK3NBSLZwHOybQq_LjUFqA7_DMwp455_cS8g6IKptfS-DPYol8ihjiu-bg4LOy7jKR5lg93aVb3fkWhyphenhyphen_pqQsCQm-fP7K3x_08jn3Pw7mDTXpiWMuvyz1J34cHye_Cw6LU327lp-Q6E/s1600-h/IMG_0045.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqdK3NBSLZwHOybQq_LjUFqA7_DMwp455_cS8g6IKptfS-DPYol8ihjiu-bg4LOy7jKR5lg93aVb3fkWhyphenhyphen_pqQsCQm-fP7K3x_08jn3Pw7mDTXpiWMuvyz1J34cHye_Cw6LU327lp-Q6E/s200/IMG_0045.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5177759329797256370" /></a><br />It has been almost a month since we lost two students to street violence at Charlotte High School, Both students were freshman and their lost was deeply felt by everyone in the building. Read more about what occured here on the <a href="http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080221/NEWS01/802210357/1003">Democrat & Chronicle </a>.<br /><br />The first couple of days back were a little rough with students asking questions of why, and having difficulty dealing with the lost of someone whom they had known. <br /><br />Looking back, our students were great, they were very open to healthy dialogue on about their emotions and thoughts. They also used various venues to release there emotions such as creating cards, signing the students lockers and leaving messages on the poster hanging in the cafeteria. Many of the students also attended the funeral services of both students. <br /><br />Still to this date there is no information on who committed this crime and why. A lot of what we have heard is just speculation. Some of the dialogue I had with students in classes was about the importance of reporting whatever they may know. I was mainly trying to address the issue of "snitching." One of the main areas of concerns in school and in urban environments. <br /><br />One particular dialogue sticks out in my mind. I asked the students why don't students "snitch" or report crimes? The one student who raised her hand first, turned and looked at me and said, "Mr. Soler, we know what's right and what's wrong, but you gotta understand that we live in those neighborhoods and if we tell someone, that person we told doesn't necessarily go back to that neighborhood but we do." <br /><br />Those comments really pointed to the immense presence of fear that exist in inner-city communities. She was 100% right many of us involved with students in urban schools do not live in the same neighborhoods. I found myself stuck and I didn't really know how to respond to her, other then saying you must use schools and education as the way out to better yourself, and family. <br /><br />I ended my visit by saying, <span style="font-weight:bold;">"All we have is each other!"</span><br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-29322069951981278752008-04-16T22:48:00.007-04:002008-12-09T13:05:12.583-05:0014th Annual Noche Dorada Banquet<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgfHwpl4oIZeYx1rL2swm7DXWY_2x93WjAu1G53tXwEV99btqo1kR2fw1ssbn3KJPAMtaZAUAmp85s0jRzPsK-9NxihoHtKsrzhizZFDufTnkUmPQE5eyZ0qITTED_QCHue0wh2E36Wo/s1600-h/Epsilon+20yr+Flyer.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgfHwpl4oIZeYx1rL2swm7DXWY_2x93WjAu1G53tXwEV99btqo1kR2fw1ssbn3KJPAMtaZAUAmp85s0jRzPsK-9NxihoHtKsrzhizZFDufTnkUmPQE5eyZ0qITTED_QCHue0wh2E36Wo/s320/Epsilon+20yr+Flyer.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5190040763233681282" /></a><br />I would like to remind everyone that I will be the keynote speaker at this year's 14th Annual Noche Dorada Banquet. It is also the 20th Anniversary celebration for my Chapter. I will repost my speech after this weekend. I look forward to seeing you all there! <br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-39356109685994227072008-04-20T20:56:00.007-04:002008-12-09T13:05:12.339-05:00Keynote Speech 14th Annual Noche Dorada<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU1e2X4nv1efv3oT2r7SVyk19HvpwoPrSybpwl6Xf9Dus8cJj77krxE_ilrVt8m8VPHO7EoPPjX2vM7sUXqAWdZw1E8oEjPj0Pojfo-okP8x0MenFtEIGr2zRUpzFTAlrqQyBEITPNPco/s1600-h/AnibalKeynote2LUL.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU1e2X4nv1efv3oT2r7SVyk19HvpwoPrSybpwl6Xf9Dus8cJj77krxE_ilrVt8m8VPHO7EoPPjX2vM7sUXqAWdZw1E8oEjPj0Pojfo-okP8x0MenFtEIGr2zRUpzFTAlrqQyBEITPNPco/s320/AnibalKeynote2LUL.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5191499053754845874" /></a><br />The event was a success! Congratulations to all the undergraduate Hermanos who worked so hard on the event. I along with many alumni Hermanos had a great time! I have copied my speech below and I hope you feel the message as much as the crowd did that night.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Keynote Speech<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br />Ladies and Gentleman, Damas y Caballeros, Let me first start out by saying thank you! Thank you for attending the 20th Anniversary of the Epsilon Chapter of La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. I want to also thank my Hermanos for giving me this opportunity to come before you today and deliver my message. <br /> <br />When my Hermanos asked me if I would be the keynote speaker tonight, I was thrilled. I didn’t hesitate for a moment at this opportunity, the opportunity to address the future leaders and difference makers of our world.<br /> <br />Before I proceed, I want to take a moment to recognize all of you in attendance that are achieving the dream. You are what I often state amongst colleagues, students and peers, Viviendo El Sueno, Living the Dream! Before I continue, please give yourself a round of applause! <br /><br />This year’s theme is "Eternal Reflections: Viente Anos y Para Siempre!" For any of my non-Spanish speaking guest that is “20 years and Forever. “ <br /><br />This year’s theme speaks to our capability to live and learn from our past, to take what we know and continue pushing forward in our daily lives. This year’s theme creates an opportunity for us to reflect, and take a good look at ourselves as Latinos and citizens of this world. It also forces us to ask the question, are we as Latinos truly doing the best we can do for ourselves and our people with the privileges we have been given and earned. The term, “Eternal Reflections is the ability to always look at yourself in the mirror and see your past, present and future within yourself and everything you do and stand for. <br /><br />Having said this, I am sure you are wondering who I am, and why am I here? <br /><br />Before I get into specific details about me, you need to know some information from the past. Information that will help shed a light on why I do what I do, and why we are all here as an organization. <br /><br />Twenty years ago, sixteen courageous Latino Men at Buffalo State College unified. These 16 young men at the time saw a void on their institution’s campus. They saw the lack of representation and voice for a growing Latino population. They found it very difficult to have their cultural needs meet through their college experience. They saw a lack of appreciation and recognition of their Latino “cultura.” <br /><br />They decided to endure a process they would take them 13 and a half weeks, and finally on April 23, 1988, these young Latino men became the founding Hermanos of the Eternal Epsilon Chapter of La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. A chapter that started at one institution and has now since evolved into a citywide chapter encompassing nearly all institutions in the City of Buffalo.<br /><br />I would like to take a moment to recognize these founding Hermanos, if you are in attendance please stand up to be recognized… <br />1. Hermano George Cruz <br />2. Hermano Caesar Cabrera <br />3. Hermano Albert Martinez <br />4. Hermano Alexis Bairan <br />5. Hermano Edgar Martinez <br />6. Hermano Francisco Guzman <br />7. Hermano John Tufino <br />8. Hermano Leslie Leon <br />9. Hermano Stan Luban <br />10. Hermano Alex Cruz <br />11. Hermano Anthony Cruz <br />12. Hermano Mike Rosell <br />13. Hermano Anthony Rivera <br />14. Hermano Renard Aikins <br />15. Hermano Richard Bertocci <br />16. Hermano Edwin Suarez El Segundo<br /> <br />Because of these men, I was able to join an organization that reaffirmed my commitment to the empowerment and betterment of all Latinos. Because of these men I also connected with three other individuals, who became my line brothers and life long Hermanos. This organization has taught me that all things are possible through education and collaboration with others who believe in the struggle. To date, there are approximately 100 young men from various backgrounds and beliefs who united under the vision of La Fraternidad and became Hermanos.<br /><br />So now onto the present, and who am I?<br /><br />Well as you previously heard, my name is Anibal Soler, I am currently an Academy Director/ Vice-Principal at Charlotte High School in the Rochester City School District. In case anyone was wondering I'm 100% Puerto Rican and very proud of my culture, as I am sure many of you are. I have grown up and lived the majority of my life in the City of Rochester. I attended public city schools up until my junior year of high school, when my parents had finally gained the means to own their own home, and we moved to the suburbs. <br /><br />After graduating high school, I attended Daemen College in Amherst, NY on a basketball scholarship. Yeah, us Latino’s can play ball too. During my time at Daemen College, in the Spring of 98, I became an Hermano of La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. After becoming an Hermano and obtaining my undergraduate degree in teaching, I came back home to Rochester yet again. I worked full time as an Art teacher, at what was called at that time, Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Since graduating from Daemen College I have since obtained two master’s degrees, one from Nazareth College in educational technology and another from St. John Fisher College in educational administration. Currently, I am working on my doctorate at the University of Rochester in educational leadership. <br /><br />I am sure many of you are sitting here and thinking, boy, that is a lot of school loans! Well you’re right, but well worth the ultimate goal, and we all know that knowledge is power. <br /><br />Well, that’s enough about me, now let’s to get to why I am here. <br /><br />I need you to take a moment to focus and critically consider the message I am going to deliver tonight. In my line of work, the country is in a state of crisis, some have called it a “silent epidemic.” As I have previously stated I am a high school Vice-Principal in the City of Rochester. I work in one of the five largest school districts in New York. I work in a school district that has approximately a 90% poverty rate. Many of my students come from homes and life experiences very similar to what many of you and I have encountered, except with them, I am losing more then I am gaining. I want you to understand that what the future holds is very critical for us, us as Latinos and us as a country. <br /><br />A couple of weeks ago, ABC news reported that as a country, we have a national high school drop out rate of 50%. Ladies and gentlemen, that is 1.2 Million students dropping out a year. In Los Angeles the dropout rate is 45%, in Baltimore 34%, Miami 49%, and home to many of you, New York City, 47%. In Detroit 1 out of 4, 9th graders that entered school this year, will graduate. That is 25% graduation rate! Mi Gente, this has got to change! <br /><br />Out of all the minorities not graduating, Latino’s are the highest. Latino’s are dropping out of high schools at an even alarming rate and are as much as 75% of the dropouts in America. In Rochester we have approximately 10,000 high school students, and if things don’t change and they continue to follow the current path, we will only graduate 40 percent of those students, that is 4,000 out of 10,000 high school students will be graduating. The majority of those not graduating in my school district are Latino’s. Latino’s in my school district are the highest of any minority group not making it out of high school. Again, the problem is real, and this has got to change! <br /><br />According to the America’s Promise Alliance, every 26 seconds, one high school student drops out. Based off this statistic alone, by the time I get done speaking to you tonight, we will lose approximately 50 high school students. <br />In September of 2007, CNN reported that more Blacks and Latinos live in jail cells that in college dorms. The numbers are staggering. More then three times as many African-American people live in prison cells than in college dorms. The numbers don’t get any better for Latinos as there are 2.7 Latino inmates for every one Latino living in college housing. The majority of these inmates are also males. <br /><br />This information also reflects the majority of the students dropping out of high school and not graduating. The bulk of them are also African-American and Latino. They live in poor unfunded inner cities. They come from homes and environments where they have little to no social support. They come from broken homes that have a single parent or grandparent raising them. The conversations about the value and importance of education are far and few in between in their lives. <br /><br />For me, as I am sure was the case for many of you, college always felt like an option but only because my mother, and my Abuelo made it that way. They were my advocates. As the most educated person in my family, I feel a sense of pride but also a great appreciation. My mother never let me believe that the color of my skin or the amount of money we had would define my future. Instead, I got unfailing support. Now today, I am before students who are going through the same process and our coming from similar backgrounds. By showing and being the example for students that college is accessible, we can set an example for our future leaders. We all know that education is the foundation and the critical component for our success. <br /><br />The time has changed, and today’s inner-city students need more support then ever, they need advocates and mentors in their lives. <br /><br />Last year with the help of one of my Hermanos, I orchestrated the first ever free out of town overnight college trip for ten of my senior students at my high school. Ten students who knew the importance of college, but never had the opportunity to experience what it is like. Ten students, who had never left their neighborhood, were suddenly exposed to a completely new world of possibility. Last June, all ten students graduated high school and eight out of the ten enrolled in a college for the upcoming next year. This is just one example of what can be done.<br /> <br />I know this sounds crazy, but just last week , I had another example of the power and benefit of mentoring. A true example of what can occur if we all get involved in the life of a youth. I have been working with a young lady for this past school year. She comes from a broken home and has had many personal struggles throughout her life. She shows up to school every day with a smile and she makes sure that her academics are in place. This same young lady also works twenty plus hours at Wegmans to help make ends meet at home. <br /><br />Last Friday at around noon, I took this young lady for an interview at the St. John Fisher College HEOP Office. An hour later, she was accepted, and as she turned to hug me outside of the office, she said, “Mr. Soler, I did it I am the first in my family to go to college, Thank you!” After that I walked her over to the bookstore to buy her, her first college t-shirt. Before I continue, I want to acknowledge that this would not be possible if I didn’t have the assistance of an Hermana of Sigma Lambda Upsilon Sorority, Inc. This is another example of why we must all be involved. <br /><br />You are probably sitting there thinking what can I do to help? Well you have taken the first step. You have come and supported this organization through the purchase of your ticket. You have given a monetary donation that will be used by LUL to help impact the life of Latinos and other under represented groups on college campuses. <br /><br />Before I leave you, tonight I want you to remember that your life will be measured not by how long you lived, but by what you have done during that time for others. So please make time to give to organizations such as LUL. If you cannot give financially then please give with your time, heart and dedication to doing what is our civic responsibility, of taking care of others. Make sure you go back to your college dorms, your work place and think how you may make a difference in the life of someone younger and less fortunate then yourself. Make sure you become an advocate for those students who are just as you were in high school. Again, this problem is real, and it is all of our responsibility to help.<br /><br />Think back to what those 16 young Latino men did 20 years ago when they decided to create change and opportunity for the generations of Latinos to follow in college campuses in Buffalo.<br /><br />I want to leave you tonight with some words from one of my all time favorite pieces of writing by Michael Josephson states, “Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident. It’s not a matter of circumstance but of choice. Choose to live a life that matters!” <br /><br />Please help our youth, “Live the Dream!” <br /><br />Thank you and Para Siempre!!<br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8837569635360613131.post-84830478254884899602008-05-23T16:32:00.007-04:002008-12-09T13:05:12.104-05:00Charlotte High School Prom 2008<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBvDaNFffR0t8ZZFve7U_VEvA_VWM-2ckrGG3DeMzODzOzcpob7xIil2F1tvywNsLywsBUTIpwOnSqhlVClalKvVAeqT0mxCTYKtq0aqKeVsuRrH1oiJ-UTNL2HZZpgGRkufH22d_kYY/s1600-h/PICT0057.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBvDaNFffR0t8ZZFve7U_VEvA_VWM-2ckrGG3DeMzODzOzcpob7xIil2F1tvywNsLywsBUTIpwOnSqhlVClalKvVAeqT0mxCTYKtq0aqKeVsuRrH1oiJ-UTNL2HZZpgGRkufH22d_kYY/s320/PICT0057.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212608107156859202" /></a><br /><br />Time has flown by, and just the other night we had another successful magnificent event for our student body. We had our 2nd Annual Junior/Senior Prom. I am always amazed at how good our students look when they dress up. As expected our students had a great time and enjoyed another memorable night in their high school career.<br /> <br />My only wish is that more staff members would participate and attend this event so that they would view our students in a different lens and get a better understanding of what it is all about. <br /><br />This event also brings us closer to graduation and now we only have a month.<br /><br />The work continues!!!<br /><br />-- <br />¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)<br />Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.<br />http://www.anibalsoler.com <br />http://anibalsoler.blogspot.comMr. Solerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10595992299096586590noreply@blogger.com0