La Disciplina (The ability to prolong immediate satisfaction for long-term success.)
From Screwy Louie to Dr. Cruz… a life that demonstrates the importance of recognizing opportunity and making the most of it via “La Disciplina”.
Dr. Luis Cruz takes the students on a trip “back in time”, a prequel to his current life, as he illustrates his humble beginning as the eldest son of immigrant parents who migrated to the United States and settled in the barrio of Los Angeles, California. He shares how he was labeled an “English Language Learner” and describes the challenges he had to endure as he navigated through the dual life of school and the barrio.
Dr. Cruz shares with students the “hidden” opportunities each of us is presented throughout life and the importance of making the right decisions. He passionately and convincingly articulates the trials and tribulations of his journey and the catastrophic mistake he almost made to not go to college had he listened to a counselor who told him he would “amount to nothing”. In addition, he teaches students the importance of practicing what he calls in Spanish “La Disciplina”. He showcases the successes he has accomplished (the success every student can accomplish) as he was granted a Doctorate in Education; has a reputable career as a public school educator; is a leader in his community and a national presenter.
Topics for student assemblies 45-50 minutes:
- The importance of making the most of the hidden opportunities life presents.
- An emphasis on the how the decisions you make ultimately contribute to the happiness (or sadness) of your lives.
- A better understanding of what it ultimately means to be successful.