When we found out Pupil Services staff member Dolores Renteria was recognized by the City of Compton last November, we had to learn more. Ms. Renteria was celebrated at a City of Compton Council meeting for her commitment to the students and families of Compton and to sharing the love of reading with children. “I love what I do and I love encouraging children to read,” said Ms. Renteria, who for decades hosted reading programs at the Compton Public Library for children. She retired from the library late last year.

“I am honored when I hear that many of the children I worked with call me their mentor…and now they are adults!” she shares with pride, recalling her conversations with young students whom she encouraged to believe in themselves and to explore books that tell stories about the great contributions and history of people of color.

“I believe it is important for students to learn about their culture and to understand that people from their culture have made very important contributions to this world. The more they know that, the more they will believe that they can also be a leader and make an impact.”

Ms. Renteria not only works for Compton Unified School District, she is a resident of Compton and whose children attended Compton schools. In fact, she often encouraged partnerships and programs between the library in Compton schools, believing that they play an important role in educating children.

It is no wonder she personifies Compton pride. “I am proud of our community. We have amazing caring families with young people will great potential who I believe can do great things!”

Ms. Renteria’s favorite quote, one that she lives by, is by Mahatma Gandhi: “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”