Billy Bosquez became a JMG Specialist with the Institute for Excellence in Education in September 2021. In a short amount of time, he is making a difference in the lives of the youth he serves in Gratiot County. We asked several questions so you can get to know him better:
Why did you become a JMG Specialist?
I became a JMG Specialist in order to help show students and young adults that their history does not have to dictate their futures. I also became a specialist in order to help students see that a little help (from a coach, teacher, friend, or family member) can go a long way to support young people in overcoming challenges and achieving their dreams.
What inspires you about your job?
In my role as a JMG Specialist, I am most inspired by the perseverance and grit that students demonstrate in waking up and coming to school despite the many personal difficulties that they are facing outside of school hours.
Recall a favorite memory as a specialist.
My favorite JMG memory is seeing JMG students of different shapes, sizes, colors, and genders rallying together at Leadership Day to encourage one another to overcome the physical barriers at the high ropes activities. It was a great symbol of the power of unity and the power of positive voices to help each other overcome barriers in life.
What is one of the greatest challenges you face in your job?
The greatest challenge I face in my work is a lack of time!
What is one of the greatest joys/highlights of your job?
One of the greatest joys as a specialist is to see a student's physical posture/demeanor change as a result of finding success in school/work and engaging in positive adult relationships. Seeing students change from hanging their heads low to holding their heads high!
Why do you think JMG is so important for youth?
JMG is so important for youth because young people often have clouded vision due to the immediate issues/needs/wants. JMG helps young people cast a vision of what "could be" and provides youth with the support necessary to achieve their goals.
Share a couple of random facts to get to know you better.
I am an advocate for strong, healthy families! I love family! I love my family and other's families and I believe that families are the single-most important institution/structure in our world. Our 7th child and our family's newest addition is due to arrive on May 4th. I also enjoy traveling and experiencing other cultures.