SANTA ANA : 25 Latino Students to Tour Mexico

Monique Mendez, a junior at Saddleback High School, never thought she would meet a president of another country, let alone be his guest.

But for six days beginning Sunday, Mendez will tour Mexico’s countryside, historical sites and join in a cultural celebration as the guest of President Carlos Salinas de Gortari.

“It’s great and unique to meet the president of Mexico. My grandmothers’ parents were born there. Everyone tells me I’m going to love it,” she said.

Mendez is one of 25 students from local intermediate and high schools chosen by the district to participate in the second annual “Youth in Solidarity National Reunion.” The event is sponsored by the Mexican government and aimed at giving students of Mexican descent an opportunity to learn about their heritage and encourage cultural exchange.

“I’m really glad that I was chosen because I know I’ll learn a lot and be able to share that when I get back,” Mendez said. “It will be interesting to see the ruins and see how the people were back then and see how their style is different from ours today.”

The contingent from Santa Ana Unified will join about 2,000 other California students who will stay in Oaxtepec, on the outskirts of Mexico City, visit archeological sites, museums and Mayan temples and meet the president.

District spokeswoman Diane Thomas said the trip “is a very exciting opportunity for them. Many know very little about their native country. The Mexican government will provide everything, airfare for the kids and lodging at a vacation center.”

Maria Renteria, an eighth-grade student at Sierra Intermediate School, said that although she was born in Mexico, she was too young to remember much about the country when she left.

Renteria said that returning to her native land is especially important because “if you’re Mexican, it’s good to learn your own culture and customs. It’s a lot different (than learning in class) because you get to see it, you know? You don’t just hear about it, you see it.”

Renteria said she has already begun packing for the trip. “My best friend is going. We’re just thinking about all the fun we’re going to have. I’m just really excited about it,” she said.