Foreword by Ramon C. Cortines, Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD)

The journey of Randy Jurado Ertll has not been easy by any means. He grew up in El Salvador and South Central Los Angeles. He lived in dangerous and violent environments. He overcame many challenges through focusing on obtaining a quality education through the Los Angeles Unified School District and through the A Better Chance scholarship program. He sacrificed by going away to Rochester, Minnesota and leaving his mother and two younger sisters behind. But he needed to get away, to escape the allure of gangs.

Jurado Ertll sets an example that minority youth who grow up in the inner-city can in fact become successful and should return to their own communities to make a significant and positive impact in improving the lives of others. He has done an excellent job being executive director of El Centro de Accion Social where he helps countless students and senior citizens through social service programs. He is committed to social justice.

Jurado Ertll witnessed much violence and injustices. Instead of giving up or being intimidated, he has stood up and fought for the rights of others. It is an exhausting and demanding journey, but we need community leaders like him to continue making social change.

His story transcends the Salvadoran American experience. It is a real life story of perseverance and courage. As a Mexican American myself, I understand his struggles and dreams. Thousands of young students will relate to his story, will gain insight, and knowledge of opportunities that do exist to help our students. Our students need to be aware of the various programs that are available to help them succeed. We cannot afford to allow “our children” to drop out or join gangs.

They must seek the path of knowledge. As Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District I applaud Randy’s efforts to inform our community through this insightful and powerful book. We have to teach our children that there is “Hope in Times of Darkness.”

Ramon (Ray) Cortines
Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).