Rafael Perales took a life-changing leap that would determine the course of his daughter Alisa’s future. A recent fellow, he recently departed his longterm practice as a trial attorney in San Bernardino, California. At that time, Alisa was just one year old. This consequential Johnson family decision, born of desperation, sought to place her education at the top of the family’s priorities. In the meantime, Rafael has thrown himself into being a committed father. He’s become Alisa’s home-school teacher, leading her on an extraordinary educational journey.
In addition to creating a visual schedule, Rafael helped Alisa establish a daily routine. With a pretty regimented routine of 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Mon.-Fri. This strategy is supported by child development experts, who advise that structured, predictable schedules allow children to relax, engage, and explore in safety. In his mentorship, Alisa flourished academically, proving to be an astonishing talent well beyond her years.
By age two, Alisa was reading independently, a notable achievement that merely hinted at her remarkable giftedness. Rafael home-schooled her until she was eight years old. In the process, she was able to take the classes that allowed her to receive the equivalent of a California high school diploma. This achievement opened the doors for Alisa to attend Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa, California, at the age of 8 years old. That decision launched her on an amazing path that made her one of the youngest college graduates ever.
Rafael’s commitment to integrating education into their family adventures enriched Alisa’s learning experience. He often incorporated lessons into their vacations, visiting historical sites such as the Grand Canyon and Mount Rushmore to teach subjects like history and geography. This experiential learning approach was both effective and engaging for Alisa, enabling her to make connections between academic concepts and real-world experiences.
If that wasn’t enough, at only 10 years old, Alisa stole the show. Come May, she’ll have two associate degrees in mathematics and general science from Crafton Hills College. Her recent accomplishments are a testament not only to her intellectual brilliance, but to the relentless advocacy of her father. Rafael hopes to accompany Alisa on her future expeditions and help chaperone her travels. If she decides to pursue a path in entrepreneurship, he’s just as interested in starting a tech company with her, too.
In between the challenges of being a parent and holding down Alisa’s education, Rafael is determined as ever to do right by Alisa and their family. He emphasizes that “kids come first. She comes before everything, including myself. I’m pretty far down the list of important things.” This philosophy highlights his commitment to fostering Alisa’s talents and interests while ensuring her happiness and growth come first.
11-year-old Alisa will be attending the University of California, Riverside this Fall. Yet Rafael is wholly conscious of the challenges she will have to navigate. He’s just as excited to stay on campus while she goes to her programs. This joint commitment almost certainly means he will not be going back to a full-time day job any time soon. “When people ask: ‘Are you going back to work?’ [I say], ‘Yeah, I might slow down and relax and do something like a 9-to-5 again someday.’ Not now,” he stated.
Experts fully acknowledge the importance of parents’ participation in their kids’ education. Klein, the director of the Barnard College Center for Toddler Development, notes that “it almost always could be said that less is more for children. They just want to be with you.” As a dad, Rafael takes an active interest in Alisa’s education, too. He makes sure she knows he’s there for her, every step of the way.
Rafael’s dedication extends beyond academics. It encompasses all aspects of Alisa’s development. He is still Sea Change’s greatest advocate and proponent, and continues to work tirelessly to promote his daughter’s success both academically and outside of school. Perhaps it’s the mutual experiences and regular schedule, but the pair have built an impressive bond. This backing will no doubt help Alisa as she meets new challenges and embraces new opportunities.