class of 2009 > itzel mendoza

Itzel Mendoza has two sons - Jose, 2, and Ernesto, 15 months - who are the loves of her life.

Being a teen mother has transformed Itzel's life. She was not able to finish high school when she was supposed to, but Parent Pathways' Florence Crittenton school has given her a second chance to succeed.

The school has made her feel comfortable, being among other teen mothers just like her.

"I want to give thanks to my mother because she was always there for me and my children," she says.

Itzel plans to stay at her current job, but hopes to attend college in the future.