Where Are They Now? Flo Lopez

Where Are They Now?  

SMAS Graduates Share Their Stories

Flo Lopez at her job at Starbucks
In her green apron with a turquoise mask
"Flo Lopez - SMAS Alum Gives Back"

Meet Flo Lopez

In 2016, Flo Lopez obtained her GED.  She graduated and received a scholarship.  She attended college at the College of San Mateo, is currently on a break from college work, and will return to college next year. She works as a supervisor at Starbucks and is a cheerleader for students like herself.

What's Her Story?

Flo was born in El Salvador and came here with her brother when she was just six years old.  There were many challenges and she learned a lot through them.  When she was sixteen, she hit yet more challenges and made the choice to leave high school and get a job. 

Through everything, Flo knew she wanted a future for herself. And through everything, her mom was her number one cheerleader. So at the age of twenty one, she started her studies at San Mateo Adult School.  Obstacles continued to show up in her path.  It wasn’t easy!  But she was committed to move forward - and her mom cheered her on.

Flo learned about Juanita Wasko, who graduated from SMAS at the age of seventy eight. Wow!  That inspired her.  So at the age of twenty three, Flo made a serious commitment:  Just like Juanita, she would pursue her goals and get her GED!  

Success Through Difficulty

Flo studied under hard conditions - usually hitting the books late at night after working all day.  Teacher Ellen Haworth encouraged her and gave her many tips which helped to sustain her.  She got up the courage to take the test - but missed passing by just five points.  But!  She told herself - get back on the horse and keep going till you finish!  

The following year the score system changed and that was the boost she needed.  She pushed hard and passed!

“I could not believe i had accomplished the biggest challenge that i had - that literally boosted my confidence - it made me really realize - that having an education is really important - not to just have more opportunities but to have more confidence.”  

Life Today - Giving Back

Today she is using her skills at Starbucks as a supervisor.  Math is so important, she notes. She uses it in her job every day.  

In her speech at graduation, she talked about giving back, and Flo does just that. She has visited Ellen’s classes to share advice and encouragement.

“I always encourage others to keep going - because if you set your mind to it - anything can be accomplished.  Everythings a struggle but that’s just life - you just have to put your best foot forward.  If you set your mind to it, that’s all you need - with a little push from other people. You got to have patience with yourself.  Nowadays you have everything in the blink of an eye - but can you really get your education in the blink of an eye?  No. You just have to go through it.  I encourage my family and coworkers to focus on education. At first I thought you don’t need math, reading, and writing but now I love to read and journal.  With God’s grace, I have done a lot."

You sure have, Flo!  And you are doing more by sharing your story now.  Thank you for sharing a bit about where you have been and where you are going.  And don’t forget to stay in touch!  

Are you an alum who would like to share your story? Contact us, please! Your story can inspire others to move forward on their goals and dreams!

Get to Know New High School Diploma Teacher Claudio Cozzi

Meet Claudio Cozzi,  New SMAS High School Diploma Teacher!

Claudio Cozzi
Image Description:
Man in suit with dark hair and moustache

Claudio Cozzi is coming back to his love and initial career, education.  Claudio grew up in Venezuela and began tutoring middle and high school students in math and basic sciences when he was 16 years old.  After completing a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science at MIT he went back to Venezuela and became a professor of Computer Science in one of the State universities. He spent 8 years as a full time professor where he was in charge of building new curricula and managing the department (all while completing a Masters in Operations Research, too.).

Claudio immigrated to the United States in 1982 and worked in several Information Technology roles, retiring from IBM as an IBM Distinguished Engineer in 2018.  His last position was Global Leader for the Systems Modernization Practice in the Global Services organization and was in charge of best practices and competency skills development and training for more than 15,000 practitioners worldwide.  During that time he also taught more than 30 technical courses, in 3 languages and in 20 countries. 

In 2019, Claudio began working as a volunteer Mathematics teacher in the Adult School.  Since then, he has acquired California teaching credentials for Adult Education in multiple subjects.   His teaching approach has always been - and will continue to be - a collaborative coaching style.  He likes his students to “think” and his classes tend to be interactive. He looks for active participation and comprehension of new ideas through their application to commonly known concepts, like trade, medicine, sports, shopping, business, etc.  

Claudio loves to teach and is looking forward to the opportunity to continue doing it in a multicultural environment where he can help people achieve their educational goals.

Welcome, Claudio, to San Mateo Adult School!

In Memoriam: Ms. Shaina Thompson

Snapshots of Ms Thompson

Shaina Thompson was a beloved teacher at the San Mateo Adult School for over twenty years.  She taught primarily in the GED and HIgh School Diploma programs.  Tragically, she passed away this summer, not long after her husband.  The SMAS community misses her dearly and remembers her here with these tributes:

From SMAS Director Tim Doyle

“Because I have been at the Adult School for 32 years, I have known Shaina for the whole 24 or so years she worked here.  This despite the fact that we worked primarily in different programs, Shaina in High School Equivalency and I in English as a Second Language.  Shaina is one of those people who stand out in one’s life because she is unique; there is only one Shaina.  She was incredibly nurturing for concurrent high school students who had given up on themselves as ever being a student.  She got them to dig into themselves and take their lives seriously and that they had lives of value.  Shaina even managed to drag some writing out of the most resistant and for some it was a revelation to put words to paper.  They went on to write compelling stories about their lives and struggles.” 

From SMAS Teacher Carolyn Pannu

Teacher Carolyn and Ms. Thompson

“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly. What is essential is invisible to the eye."  What a generous and tender heart Shaina had!!
From SMAS Teacher and CFT Local 4681 President David Doneff:

“Shaina had a brilliant mind and taught with a big heart. She gave a lot of herself for her students. She is missed by her students and colleagues.”

 From SMAS Alum Cristina Munoz Ulrich

Ms. Thompson and SMAS Alum
Cristina Munoz Ulrich

“I want to say that teacher Shaina was an excellent teacher, kind, motivator, good listener, and supportive. Particularly she helped me to get better on my reading, and writing skills. When I had any concerns about the subjects we were learning she always offered her help.

On the other hand, she always encouraged us to participate and spend time in any holding celebration we had at school. She was happy seeing us together and spending quality time in class.

I would like to add to say that Teacher Shaina loved her daughter and grandchildren. Sometimes when I spoke to her, she always said that her grandchildren were her life and she loved taking care of them”. 

From SMAS Teacher Cynthia Eagleton

“I loved Shaina’s combination of fierceness and tenderness.  I knew I could be real with her and that she would be real with me. She was not afraid of the real. She knew that only in the real - our beauty, our brokenness, our frailty, our power - can we find real growth and redemption. I miss her.”

From SMAS Teacher Laetitia Bordes

"Shaina - a woman of courage and dedication"

From SMAS Teacher Mary Weng

Teacher Mary
and Ms. Thompson

Shaina was a very creative and artistic lady.  She created beautiful pink pearl necklaces for my daughters, Diana and Lizzy.  They love Shaina's warmth and charisma.  They treasure their special necklaces.  

I always enjoyed our interesting and funny conversations.  She always gave me something to think about and reflect upon.  I will miss her personal style and humor.

From SMAS Student Edy Vasquez

Ms. Thompson and her husband

Ms Thompson was a good teacher. The time that I studied on her program I learned a lot. Now God has on his hands, but I miss a lot her classes. Thank you, Ms Thompson.

God help Ms. Thompson's family. They need you now; only you can help everyone, especially in hard times like now. Thank you God for everything a man!

SMAS Graduates Win Scholarships

San Mateo Adult School Class of 2019 graduated on Wednesday, June 19th.  The event was held at the Hillsdale High School Theater - an evening of accomplishment and celebration.

Several students not only graduated but also won scholarships. Some of the scholarship winners were former ESL students.  All of the graduates and scholarship winners worked very hard to overcome obstacles, activate their strengths, learn new skills, and accomplish their goals.  We congratulate them, celebrate their success, and look forward to seeing what they accomplish next!

Here is a list of the scholarship winners:

Ryan Bisso - Steven Paul Friedman Foundation Scholarship

Mayra Avalos - former ESL student - William E. & Janet Price Scholarship

Norma Enciso - Golden Gate Commandery #16 Scholarship

Sara Rodriguez-Sarabia - Rotary International of Foster City Scholarship

Alexander Clemente - former ESL student - Shipman Family Scholarship

Naomi Dolcos - Burlingame Masonic Lodge $400 Scholarship

Julie Ferrando - Burlingame Scottish Rite Bodies Scholarship

Alma Banuelos - former ESL student - John and Lisa Nelson Scholarship

Reina De Los Santos - former ESL student - John and Lisa Nelson Scholarship

Graduate and Scholarship Winner Reina De Los Santos
and her family
Alt Text:  Graduate in black gown and pink lei
surrounded by smiling family

San Mateo Adult School Class of 2019
Alt text:  Two rows of graduates in black gowns, all smiles

Wendy Samayoa's Graduation Speech: The Difference is Determination

Wendy Samayoa accepts her diploma
from SMUHSD Trustee Linda Lees Dwyer

Wendy Samayoa shares the speech she gave at the San Mateo Adult School 2018 Graduation.

Prepare to be inspired!

There is a Spanish quote that sums up feelings and thoughts at this moment “La direfencia entre lo possible y lo impossible esta en la determination de una persona.”  “The difference between the possible and the impossible lies in the determination of a person.” Hello My name is Wendy Samayoa and I am here because of my determination!!

This is an evening that marks the end of an important stage in my life.  My road to educational success has not been easy as it has not been for others here tonight.  I’m from Guatemala. When I was a child my parents got divorced and my mother made the decision to come to the United States, while my father and I remained in Guatemala. I was raised by my grandparents and my aunt, along with my two sisters.   My early education from elementary school to high school was very successful. I knew from very early on I wanted to be teacher. Knowing what I wanted to do I was determined to succeed.

I enrolled at the local university and graduated as a Professor. After I graduated from the university, I started my Master’s degree in Psychology. Then my road to success became more difficult. I was unable to finish my degree because of the violence and political turmoil that was going on. Being constantly threatened and no longer feeling safe I decided to come to the United States.  My heart remains in Guatemala but my road to my success is in America.

I came to the United States in July 2016 to live with my mother. The transition from Guatemala to the United States was much more difficult than I could have imagined   At that time my English skills were very poor and as a result I could not get a job here. It was very important that I improve my English skills before continuing my education.  We looked into enrolling at CSM but I could not afford the tuition fee at that time. Determined my mother and I continued to search for the right school. My mother suggested that I could go to San Mateo Adult School and enroll in ESL classes.

I enrolled in High Intermediate ESL level in fall of 2016.  The first semester was difficult since I had a hard time communicating with other students in English   Soon my English communication skills improved and my confidence in learning returned. Choosing to return to school was a hard decision that changed my life but I wanted to continue my studies and determined to earn a degree in this country.  I was told that the Adult School offered a High School Diploma Program. This program was entirely different than ESL because you need to pass required academic courses to earn a High School Diploma. Many of the courses I took in high school in Guatemala were not transferrable in the US so I needed to make up 30 credits.  This has not been easy, there were times I wanted to give up my educational dreams and just go to work. But with the assistance and guidance of the High School Diploma staff I am now a high school graduate ready to start the next chapter in my life. I want to give a special thanks to Carlota, Mr Beall, Ms. Thompson, Mr. Creegan, Frantz and George for always encouraging me to continue my education and share my success with others.

My confidence and determination has instilled in me to be a role model to other students who have had or has similar difficulties in life. In the summer of 2017, I joined the school’s Ambassador Program, a position which I continue to hold today. In fall 2017, I ran for the Student Council President position and won. I have been a pioneer in two San Mateo Adult School pilot programs: ESL City Government Academy, and the ESL Eat Healthy Be Active Community Health Program. This Summer I am volunteering as a teacher’s aide in a Low Beginning ESL class.

I met my first long term goal and will finally receive my High School Diploma. My short term goals are to continue to improve my English skills, and go to community college next year.  And now, my second long term goal is to be a teacher here in the United States.

I would not be here tonight speaking in front of you without saying thank you to those who have always been by my side. Thanks God, my mom, my family, my teachers and my friends, thank you for supporting me in my decisions even when you did not agree with them. THANK YOU is not enough to express what I feel, this mixture of sadness, happiness and satisfaction to reach the goal.  And to all other graduates here tonight be proud of what you have accomplished and continue to follow your dreams.

So… remember “La direfencia entre lo possible y lo impossible esta en la determination de

una persona.”  “The difference between the possible and the impossible lies in the

determination of a person.”

Thank you, Wendy, for inspiring us to choose courage, effort, and persistence.

Learn more about the SMAS High School Diploma program here.

Success Story: Mohulamu Tau

Mohulamu Tau accepting his diploma

Mohulamu Tau recently graduated with a High School Diploma from San Mateo Adult School.  He was one of the speakers at the graduation.  Here, with his permission, is his speech. 

Graduation

            Good evening family and friends of the San Mateo Adult School Class of 2017. I would like to thank you all for joining us tonight as we celebrate our accomplishments and the beginning of the next chapter of our lives. There has been many times where I’ve been asked “what does Adult School mean to me?” Adult School may not be important to others, but it is a program that has changed my life. This program has been so much more than school to me. “Another Chance” I would think to myself. Ever since I have met Mr. T, Ms. Carlota, and Mrs. Thompson, I came to realize that Adult School is more than just another chance; it was my opportunity to prove all those who doubted me wrong, and to show that nothing could stop me. Thank you to you all at the Adult School who has opened my eyes to see the bigger picture. It was the push that we needed to remind us that we have a purpose in this world, and that we must work hard to find it. Each of us here in this program has faced trials that have steered us away from our educational paths, but we are here today to show that we are able to continue. We all come from different struggles and lifestyles, but we are here before you to show that it is never too late to continue your education.

            Before this program I attended Aragon and Peninsula High School. The challenges I faced had limited my time at these schools, but without these challenges I would not have been able to be standing here before you tonight. Since I was a kid, I knew I would be attending Aragon once I reached High School. My two older brothers and many other relatives had graduated from there, so it was only right that I had followed suit. It was something that I’ve imagined my whole life, playing football for Coach Sell and becoming an Aragon graduate. Making the Varsity football team was the highlight of my freshmen year but unfortunately, during my sophomore year; school was not a priority to me. I slacked off so much that eventually Peninsula High School was my next destination. Getting sent to Peninsula my junior year really helped me get back on track. My main goal was to get back on that football field. That is all I wanted to do, play football. The staff at Peninsula encouraged me to do my work and achieve my goals, to attend Aragon once again and finish my senior year off strong graduating an Aragon Don.

Sad to say, my senior year did not go as planned. In the beginning of the school year my family received devastating news that one of my brothers were missing. A day later, a day before his 25^th birthday, we were given the news that my brother Tani has passed away. It was a pain that I was incapable of dealing with. It numbed my body to the bone. People will say to “use the incident as motivation” but it was harder said than done. For a short period of time, I had lost all motivation for school. The loss had taken its toll on me and my mind was not in the right place. Once I was back into school for a couple days, I was given the choice to stay at Aragon or go back to Peninsula to finish off the school year. Since I was unable to play again I made my decision to go back to Peninsula High School where I had continued to slack off and eventually dropped out of school. I didn’t think I was ever going to have the drive to want to go back to school. However, because of Mr. T, I began to have hope once again.

Mr. T and the SMAS Team

            At first, I was skeptical about Adult school. As you would expect, Mr. T is a very convincing man. Once he got my number he became a best friend, a mentor and a motivator. He would always call just to check up on me and continues to until this day. The love and support I received made me want to accomplish so much more. I love you Mr. T and don’t you ever forget that!

Coming to Adult school was one of the best decisions I have made. I want to take this time to show my love and appreciation to a very special woman in my life. She is the one that pushed me the hardest to get my work done, the one that did not ever give up on me even when I gave up on myself. Arianna, I would not be up here if it weren’t for you. From keeping me from going out with all the boys to dragging me to the library for a couple hours even if you didn’t have homework to do. You are always thinking about not only what is best for you but, what’s best for the both of us. Standing up here tonight is one example of “our” hard work. I love you and thank you for everything you do for us. To ALL my family and friends, especially Toa, Vaasi, Gabe, Carolyn, Andria, and Papa thank you for being there for me through all the ups and downs and never turning your back on me. To ALL my other brothers, nothing changed. Staying solid, the way we were raised. To my brother and everyone watching from above, I love you guys and keep guiding me in the right direction. Last but not least to the woman who brought me into this world, I love you so much mom. You do more than enough not only for my siblings and I, but for every persons lives you come apart of. In the words of Tupac “there’s no way that I can pay you back, but my plan is to show you that I understand: you are appreciated.” Thank you.

Congratulations, Mohulamu, for overcoming obstacles and reaching success.  You inspire us!

The Class of 2017

Mohulamu Tau