Dear Los Angeles,

I am proud to be a 12th grader at Alliance Leichtman-Levine High School. Living in the city of El Sereno in East LA, I’ve spent my entire K-12 journey in charter schools. When my older brother was ready for school, my parents wanted the best for both of us. Because private schools were out of reach, and the public schools around us were under-resourced, charter schools became our answer.

I chose Alliance Leichtman-Levine because I knew I could not find the same level of education anywhere else in Los
Angeles. A big part of my academic success, personal growth, and leadership development is thanks to my school and the resources it continues to provide me. School is more than just a place for me to learn; it’s where I find community. It’s where my friends and peers show me constant support, where I have meaningful conversations with my teachers, and where my counselors inspire me to reach beyond my limits.

At Alliance, I’m reminded every day that there is a battle worth fighting for, and that everyone deserves a fair chance at a great education.

Right now, I’m working towards my dream of attending a four-year university so I can serve the community that raised me by pursuing a career as an immigration attorney. Thanks to Alliance, I feel ready for my future, and understand that I, along with others who look like me, belong in higher education.

As I look ahead to graduation, I carry with me the belief that the future of our city is built in classrooms. Through the turmoil and division, I still see the LA that I know; a city of compassion, equity, and unity.

Education is the most powerful tool we have, and no one, regardless of race, creed, ethnicity, financial status, background, or any other demographic characteristic, should be without it. We must all do our part to ensure that generations of children have the opportunity to learn, grow, and become future leaders.

Together is how we ensure the future of our city starts today.

Thank you for believing in the promise of education for all, for supporting me in my dreams, and for standing with scholars across Los Angeles.

Sincerely,

Diego Barreras
12th-Grade Scholar
Alliance Leichtman-Levine High School