Students Share Research at Graduation Ceremony

Millions of years ago, horses had hooves that resembled dog paws, with finger-like parts and claws. That’s according to 7-year-old Lorena Gomez, who researched the history and evolution of horses for more than a month.

On Thursday, she presented the information, complete with color photos and posters, to a group of parents and teachers at a summer academic program graduation in the Valley Family Center.

“I was very nervous because I had to talk in front of everyone,” Lorena, a second-grader at San Fernando Elementary School, said, giggling. “I’m glad I’m done.”

Lorena, her sister Delia, 9, and 11-year-old Kristin Haro worked on the project together during the six-week program. Delia is a fourth-grader at San Fernando Elementary and Kristin is a sixth-grader at Pacoima Middle School.

The girls also worked on math and English with teachers and volunteers. A total of 28 children participated in the 3-year-old summer program at the nonprofit center, which offers area residents year-round family therapy.

“This is to help kids who won’t be promoted to the next grade if they don’t get some assistance in the summer,” said Carmel Somers, a former teacher who runs the program. “We have them do the projects for the graduation to build self-esteem and confidence.”

Topics included turtles, Indians of Peru and historic missions.

“Some of these kids have made tremendous strides,” Somers said. “It’s very rewarding to see that.”