Student Stories: Tragedy with a Gun Arizona Call-a-Teen Adult Education National Honor Society Induction April, 2002 Reynaldo Hernandez, front center

Youthbuild staff attended the funeral of one of their students last month. Reynaldo Hernandez, 17, was killed in an accident with a gun. He had recently acquired the weapon, and told fellow students that he hoped to use it for protection. Tragically, instead of protecting himself, the gun misfired while he was twirling it, and he lost his life.

Rey will be remembered fondly as a successful student who had a good rapport with fellow students and staff. He has graduated from Youthbuild in April, with his GED diploma. Rey had recently completed two courses at Phoenix College, and was excited about his future.

Rey’s relatives compiled a book of his writings, and included a copy of his GED as well as poems and stories. One quote from one essay is:”...I’m not just another Chicano from the “Ghetto”. I am a person who is sincerely trying to change my life around…”

Youthbuild participants and staff made a collage of pictures and poems which was displayed at the funeral. A workshop on gun safety was held in August. Staff will publish a web page about gun safety in the coming months.

submitted by Maureen Hoyt 8/26/02