Helping New Students Succeed at School

Jose Ramos and Andres Pedro

May 20, 2026

Andres Pedro reporting for the Advocate News on how newcomer students are supported.

Starting at a new school can be challenging, especially for students learning a new language. This video news package explores how newcomer and ELD students at Hawkins High School overcome challenges and receive support to feel welcomed, confident, and successful in their new environment. Special thanks to Emily Pineda for sharing her experience and supporting students every day.

By Jose Ramos / Andres Pedro.

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Our Goal

Your generous donation will support the student journalists at Augustus F. Hawkins High School. It will allow us to print the newspaper and mental health magazine, purchase or repair equipment, cover our annual awards banquet and other expenses.

Su generosa donación apoyará a los estudiantes periodistas de la Escuela Secundaria Augustus F. Hawkins. Nos permitirá imprimir el periódico y la revista de salud mental, comprar o reparar equipos, cubrir nuestro banquete anual de premios y otros gastos.

About the Contributors

Jose Ramos, Photographer

José Ramos is a 17-year-old senior (Class of 2026). He was born and raised in Mexico and emigrated to the United States at the age of 13. Since then, he has always been a competitive person who strives to achieve strong results in everything he does. He likes to maintain a serious mindset instead of wasting time, and when he truly cares about something, he is willing to help others in any way he can. He enjoys working independently but also feels comfortable collaborating in small groups.

Andres Pedro, Photoprapher

Andres Pedro, 18 years old born on March 25 2007. His friends call him by his nickname Pollo. That’s been his nickname since 9th grade and he has no idea why it stuck. Other than that, he grew up in Guatemalan household with both of his parents and he is the oldest of four siblings. Currently, Andres is a sophomore (class of 2026). He been student of Augustus F. Hawkins High School in Los Angeles since 9th grade. He enjoys music, hanging out with friends and family and traveling to different places. And if you ask him about roller coaster then you’ll get his attention. He and his friends love going to Six Flags. After graduating from Hawkins, he wants to join the U S Army to protect and to serve California.