Milwaukee City Wire

Two decades ago, Eunice Perez began her journey with Academia de Lenguaje y Bellas Artes (ALBA). When ALBA opened in the early 2000s, Perez was among the first K5 classes at the school, initially based at South Division High School. ALBA later relocated to the Burnham Park neighborhood, where it now shares space with Carmen South. Perez attended ALBA through second grade, and a photo of her from a 2005 art showcase is still displayed in the school's office.

Perez continued her education at Greenfield School and later graduated from Riverside University High School. She earned degrees in political science, communications, and peace studies from Milwaukee Area Technical College and UW-Milwaukee. Her desire to contribute to the community led her back to ALBA.

"Since I was 18, I knew I wanted to do something for kids," Perez said. "I am just going to study the stuff that I like, and then, eventually, whatever I end up doing, I will use my education and my knowledge to help the community that I want to serve."

In 2022, the role of site director for the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) at ALBA became available, which fit Perez's skills and history. Despite being only 23 when hired, Perez, now 25, found no issues with her age in leading the center.

"It is interesting, but I do feel like my staff respects me," Perez remarked. "Some of the staff had me here as a student. They support me."

Perez's efforts have resulted in growth opportunities for the center. Her initial focus was on promoting the program, achieving daily attendance goals, and building family trust. Professional development at statewide conferences complemented her experience, contributing to a nurturing environment at ALBA.

Now, ALBA boasts a strong after-school culture, offering a consistent schedule that benefits families and engages youth. Since Perez's first year, average daily attendance has increased by 64 percent.

"Eunice's positive, determined spirit stands out," Milwaukee Recreation's Beth-marie Kurtz observed. "Eunice and her team offer dynamic and fun programming. Their after-school program is striving and thriving!"

Perez has established herself as a community leader in Milwaukee during her early tenure at ALBA. Regardless of her career path, her focus remains on the city's youth.

"I have always [wanted to] do something that I could envision myself needing at that age. I don't know the specifics, but I know that the kids will always be my focus," Perez stated.