An inspiring collection of personal stories from 25 Kent-Meridian High School immigrant and refugee students are featured in the book, “We Are America: Kent 2.”
Kent-Meridian teacher Marissa Winmill and her students celebrated the release of the book on June 10 at the school.
“This book is part of the national We Are America project, which amplifies the voices of immigrant and refugee students, sharing their stories of hope, resilience and diverse-lived experiences,” according to a June 11 Kent School District press release.
The first edition of the book “We Are America: Kent,” debuted last year with stories from 15 students.
Each story centers around the student’s journey to the United States. The district only released the first names of the students in the press release.
In Shaheena’s story, her family immigrated to the United States from Afghanistan after it fell to the Taliban in 2021, according to the district. Her dream now is to become a doctor and help the people of Afghanistan.
“I want to be a beacon of hope and change, ensuring that every girl has access to education and health care,” Shaheena said.
Fernando’s story tells of his harrowing journey from El Salvador to the United States, in search of a better life, according to the district. Leaving his family behind, he traveled with his mother through Guatemala and Mexico before ultimately making it to the United States. After arriving in Kent, he was able to enroll at Kent-Meridian after a few months.
“Looking back, I realize every moment of struggle has shaped who I am,” Fernando said. “No matter the barriers, no matter our doubts, our dreams are worth fighting for.”
Kent School District Superintendent Israel Vela spoke at the event, sharing his own personal story of growing up as a migrant worker in Texas and Washington. Rebekah Kim, associate superintendent of Teaching & Learning, closed the event, sharing her own family story of her grandfather, who immigrated from North Korea to South Korea during the Korean War.
“These stories inspire connection and empathy,” said Winmill, who was recently named as the National Education Association’s 2025 winner of the prestigious Mary Hatwood Futrell Human and Civil Rights Award. ”I am so grateful to have worked with this group of students.”
The book will be available for purchase at Kent-Meridian, according to the school district.
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A Kent-Meridian student talks about her personal story, part of the ‘We Are America: Kent 2,” book just released. COURTESY PHOTO, Kent School District
