Lake County Gazette

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, Westminster Public Schools highlighted the book “Cajas de cartón” as part of its Bookmarks program. The selection was recommended by Samantha Trevizo, Lead Educational Interpreter for Westminster Public Schools.

“I like this book because it is a moving, autobiographical story that shows us the reality of many students who come to this country, reflecting the experience of immigrants, with whom I identify, and the reality where families seek a better life. It shows us that the school system can be an escape from a harsh reality and a promise of a better future, giving value to education, and with the right support, it can change the lives of children,” Trevizo said.

The book, written by Francisco Jiménez and published in 1996, is also known in English as “The Circuit.” It tells the story of the Jimenez family’s migration from Mexico to the United States as migrant workers. Reviewers note that its simple style makes it accessible for young readers interested in learning about immigrant experiences.

Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 serves Lake County and includes schools such as Andrew Cooke Magnet Elementary School, Carman-Buckner Elementary School, Clearview Elementary School, Daniel Webster Middle School, Early Learning Center, Glen Flora Elementary School, Glenwood Elementary School, Greenwood Elementary School, H.R. McCall Elementary School, Hyde Park Elementary School, Jack Benny Middle School, John S. Clark Elementary School, Little Fort Elementary School, Lyon Magnet Elementary School, Miguel Juarez Middle School, North Elementary School, Oakdale Elementary School, Robert E. Abbott Middle School, Thomas Jefferson Middle School, Washington Elementary School, Waukegan High School and Whittier Elementary School (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).

According to state data reported by ISBE (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/), 79.5 percent of students in Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 are Hispanic. The district employs over one thousand teachers earning an average salary of $63,524 before pension contributions; about 71 percent are women and nearly 29 percent are men (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). In 2020 spending per student was $23,429 for a total expenditure of $359 million (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).

Bookmarks invites community members to share books they recommend or believe would interest young readers.