Many students learn about influential people who have made changes in society. At CIHS, we have students that are working to make those changes happen. Earlier this spring, Jaquelin Cruz, Idania Chavez, Tomas Arevalo, Idania Luna, and Mya Moreno traveled to the state capitol with Mr. De Los Santos to participate in the Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute. 

According to their website, the goal of the institute is for students to:

• develop leadership skills
• interact with positive role models such as Puerto Rican/Hispanic elected officials, educators, and business leaders
• create partnerships and conversations among educators, business leaders and students
• develop an in-depth knowledge of the state legislative process.

In order for students to qualify for application to this program, they must be students with heritage ties to any of the formally recognized Spanish-speaking countries, sovereign states, and/or territories. While having the ability to speak Spanish is not a requirement, many students were bilingual. Students reported that being able to speak in their first language in this setting, especially about issues that impact them specifically, was empowering. About the ease of communication, Idania Luna shared that the students “connected a lot because we were able to speak English and Spanish with each other.”

While this experience culminated in Albany, it began right here on Long Island about six months ago. The first phase of this program involved working with their regional delegation to identify and research local issues. They were also tasked with studying the NYS legislative process, parliamentary procedure, and selected bills. 

After that period of study ended, students participated in the three-day institute in Albany. There, approximately 275 students from around NYS took part in team-building activities,  a mock NYS Assembly session, a student recognition dinner, and career development workshops. Jaquelin Cruz described the first day as the most memorable for her as it was filled with workshops where they explored culture. Flags, dancing, art, and slam poetry were all presented. 

This entire experience counts for one point towards their Seal of Biliteracy which makes it not just an amazing experience, but one that builds their credentials as they graduate from high school. In addition to being a great addition to their resumes, this experience allowed students to imagine their future careers in an authentic way. Mya Moreno explained that the PR/HYLI “changes you by opening your mind to new perspectives.” She plans on becoming an attorney and shared that it was great to spend time with other students with similar interests and experiences. Similarly,  Idania Luna said she “expanded thoughts on the need to protect others.” Luna is applying for an internship for Assemblyman Phil Ramos and never thought she would want to do that before this experience. 

For more information on the history of this wonderful program, see below: