Tamales, Farmers, and Libros: Exploring Images of Excellence From Latinx Ninth Graders

• In Event: 25.057 - Our Hemispheric Legacy: Reclaiming Educational Excellence Through the Voices and Experiences of Latina/o/x Youth

Abstract

Objectives or Purposes
This paper explores the ways in which Latina/o/x 9th graders understand and conceptualize excellence at home, school, and in the community using the photovoice method (de Los Rios, 2017; Zankov & Harmon, 2009). I have three objectives: 1) empirically explore excellence based on rich photovoice data generated through the lenses of Latina/o/x 9th graders, 2) use our photovoice findings and compare those to other data sources explored within the CREER project, and 3) situate the findings within the larger context of the challenges and possibilities facing Latina/o/x in education.

Perspective(s) or Theoretical Framework
Few studies empirically explore the promises, hopes, and extent to which excellence informs their contextual realities. Using the works of Rendon (2011) una persona educada, Gutierrez’s (2008) notion of the third space, Yosso’s (2005) Community Cultural Wealth, and Moll et al. (1992) funds of knowledge as a springboard, this paper examines, how excellence can serve as an additional additive framework that informs and explains Latina/o/x student success in today’s context.

Methods, techniques or modes of inquiry
Students were encouraged to take up to 25 photos and then select three--one from home, school, and community. Students were given three guiding questions: 1) What does excellence look like in your school?, 2) What does excellence look like in your home?, and 3) What does excellence look like in your community? Students then wrote a caption describing each selected photo.

Data sources, evidence, objects, or materials
Data sources for this paper included 22 (out of 29 participants) photovoice projects. Each student submitted three photos with a written caption for each corresponding photo. Each photovoice project was analyzed as a standalone data source, then again using a within and cross-case data analysis method for an exploration of thematic patterns across the participants (Yin, 2014).

Results and/or substantiated conclusions or warrants for arguments/point of view
The findings were categorized into four major areas. Within the Family category, traditions/practices and family support/unity were significant across the projects. Within the Community category, serving the community and recognizing the ways in which multiple worlds intersect was significant. Within the Academic/School category, excellence emerged through academic work and the influence of reflection (reflejo) of others like role models, family members, and teachers. Additionally, a significant finding revolved around the characteristics needed to demonstrate excellence and were grouped in two ways: 1) persistence/”ganas”/hard work, and 2) recognizing what “is” vs. what “can be”. Findings will be shared by showing the images generated by the participants.

Scientific or scholarly significance of the study or work
In this historical moment when members of the Latina/o/x community have been publicly demonized by an anti- Latina/o/x /anti-immigrant culture, it is vital for researchers to humanize the experiences of Latina/o/x youth and allow them to tell their stories and their truths. Thus, this project contributes to an additive narrative of excellence not only in education for the sake of research, but by providing insight to other scholars, leaders, educators, and policymakers who are interested in equitably serving the Latina/o/x community.

Author

• Enrique Espinoza