Sheila Torres, an Inspiration to Students

When Sheila Torres works with immigrant middle school students, she speaks from her heart when she tells them she knows how hard it is. The students are trying to learn English, make new friends and essentially adjust to a whole new life in the United States.

Sheila Torres teaches students

Sixteen years ago Sheila, then 12 years old, arrived from Mexico City with her family. Except for a mattress and box spring on the floor, the Torres family had nothing. News of free furniture available at Canal Ministry brought Sheila's mother to our offices. After befriending one of the employees, Sheila's mom enrolled her daughter in the after-school programs. Later, Sheila became an intern, earned her California teaching credential, and now works full-time as our Middle School Coordinator, helping groups of recently arrived students.

As someone who has made the progression from recent immigrant to successful career woman, Sheila is an inspiration to her students. The young people inspire her as well. “Watching them achieve their dreams of graduating from high school and going on to college, when those dreams seemed so impossible is very rewarding,” Sheila said.

“I love my job and I love my kids,” said Sheila.