We propose to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the social-emotional development of our students at Reynolds Middle School by empowering them to investigate and express their personal identity through a Self-Portrait ‘Zine Workshop. Led by Studio Latino Teaching Artist M.Martinez, the workshop will engage 12 students over eight weeks in creating a photographed self-portrait and a 2-page spread expressing their personal identity in a collaborative ‘Zine. Partnering with local organizations like Letra Chueca, ‘Zine artists, and our school-based community, the workshop will result in the printing of the ‘Zine and distribution to family, friends, and other community members.

Latino Network’s Studio Latino program provides arts instruction across the Portland, Oregon Metro area through Schools Uniting Neighborhood Community Schools. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 87% of public schools reported that the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted student socio-emotional development during the 2021-22 school year. The Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL) recognizes the central tenets of social-emotional development as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. As a culturally specific organization, our approaches to ensuring a thriving Latino community in Oregon are rooted in our self-determination.