Breaking Through

Francisco continues to enjoy school, and he attempts to join clubs that will not interfere with his work schedule. He is a member of the Squires Club, the purpose of which is to maintain order on the lunch line and prevent littering. During his junior year, Francisco joins the Spanish club, run by Mr. Osterveen, a Spanish teacher with a “[…] thin, black mustache, just like Papa’s” (118). Originally from New York, he is married to a woman from Oaxaca, Mexico. He directs the students to think of appropriate names for the club prior to the next meeting, and Trampita and Roberto laugh and tease Francisco when he asks for their help, suggesting “The Little Stinkers” as a good name. Ultimately, Francisco suggests “The Spanish Club Saints,” a nod to the name of “The Saints” applied to the high school’s sports teams. Mama immediately translates the name to “Los santitos,” affectionately noting that the name applies to all their children, as well. This name is adopted for the club, and Francisco is elected president.

It is decided that the club should organize some sort of Christmas event, and the author is saddened by his recollection of “[…] living in tent labor camps in Corcoran during that holiday and seeing families struggling to make ends meet” (120).