Chelsea
Castrellon
Never
Give uP
By: Rozanna
Benally - Sagg
In a place that fosters heritage and academic success, Chelsea Castrellon, has the opportunity to learn more
about her cultural heritage at Pacific Heritage Academy (PHA). She is an eighth grader who exemplifies the
schools motto of finding roots and wings that will assist on the voyage of discovery.
Chelsea’s cultural roots begin with the indigenous people of Mexico, the Aztecs and she proudly shares her
cultural heritage with others. She explained why she thinks it’s important for one to know their cultural heritage
and language as she states, “we need to carry on our traditions, so they’re not lost. It’s great to know your
heritage because you don’t want to lose that knowledge.” This teaching is encouraged by her parents, Jesus
and Tania Castrellon, as well as her teachers at PHA.
At PHA, Chelsea has blossomed into a leader and continues to flourish academically. Those two elements
have allowed her to participate in the school’s Kaitiaki Kura group,
which are the “School Guardians.” The Kaitiaki Kura group is a program to help students develop their leadership skills, and help serve
the school in a meaningful way. Along with great academic performance, Chelsea has surrounds herself with good friend ̰