Former custodian now helping migrant students at Brunswick County Schools

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Luis Lopez is a man of many talents.    

Lopez has worked for Brunswick County Schools for the past 14 years as a head custodian, operations delivery driver, groundskeeper, and now as the district’s Migrant Education Program recruiter.  

In his new role, Lopez works closely with the families of more than 180 students, helping them to adjust to Brunswick County classrooms.  

Lopez said the opportunity allows him to support students who went through the same transition he once did.   

“It means a lot because I went through the same situation,” Lopez said. “When I first came over here, I couldn’t speak the language. We didn’t have that much help back then, so for me to help these kids, it means a lot to me.” 

English as a second language (ESL) and MEP coordinator Elsa Armijos said she always knew Lopez had the heart to serve the community.   

“I trust Luis, who’s going to reach out to those families and the students to ensure that they receive these opportunities and that they will be able to graduate from High School,” said Armijos. “Our goal is that students if students graduate High School, they are productive citizens.” 

 But as Lopez explains, that mission is not always easy.   

“A lot of the people, you know, being illegal sometimes, they’re scared to come around and ask questions,” Lopez said. “So, that’s what we’re here for, you know, to let them know that we got a lot of opportunities. We got a lot of programs for their kids.” 

 Lopez says the ultimate goal of the program is to give students a brighter future.   

“We just want to make sure they’re coming to the school system and getting an education, you know?” Lopez said. “Thats our goal for them.” 

For more information on Brunswick County Schools’ ESL and MEP programs, you can visit their website.