Many are dealing with poverty, as well as a lack of role models. Only 5 percent of residents have degrees from four-year colleges. But some defy adversity, pursue a career in education, and, like Leticia Carlos and Danny Melendez, even return to teach in the community that needs them the most-their own.
Born in Boyle Heights, Carlos spent her early childhood in Zacatecas, Mexico, and returned to the United States during sixth grade. At first, Carlos had problems with English, which hurt her grades.
"One of the hardest parts for me was being able to understand the material that was being taught," she said. "That was what motivated me the most to learn English."
