The biggest smile is always reserved for Sofia; she’s Luna’s favorite grown-up. Especially after Sofia delivers the most wonderful news. “Luna, your body is growing, and you look so healthy! Your mama told me how much you want to go to school. We can help you register for school, and we have an after-school program to help you get caught up. Would you like to go?”

Luna’s heart skips a beat, but she knows how much Mama needs her at home. Then she hears Mama say, “Yes, we can try.” So, with Mama’s blessing, Luna starts going to school and the After School Education Program at church.

But even with the excitement, Luna is scared and confused. She doesn’t understand what the teacher is writing on the board or what the children are reciting. One afternoon at church, she bursts into tears. Ms. Elena, the after-school teacher, sits down next to her. “Ay, ay, ay, such big tears for a little girl.” Luna takes big gulps of air and says, “Ms. Elena, school is so hard! I will never catch up.”