Cecilia is one of ten children born to migrant workers. Growing up she lived in three different states, attended seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools. Her upbringing, though challenging, instilled in her a deep sense of determination and drive to create a better future. She has held a job since she was 15, often covering her own expenses when her parents were unable to. Despite these obstacles, she was able to earn her undergraduate and graduate degrees. Now as a school psychologist in public education, she works to ensure that students with disabilities have equitable opportunities to succeed. She supports them in overcoming barriers to their education, advocating for their needs, and helping them thrive in the school system. Because of how she grew up, she has always found it difficult to answer the questions, “Where are you from?” or “Where did you grow up?” because she never stayed long enough in one place to feel truly rooted. With the help of a $10,000 down payment grant from Greenline, Cecilia was recently able to purchase a home in Santa Rosa, California and she finally feels truly rooted.
