“Stand and Deliver” teacher battling cancer

March 1, 2010

Jaime Escalante, the Los Angeles math teacher who inspired the hit movie “Stand and Deliver,” is battling cancer and his family has run out of money to pay medical bills. [KTLA]

So far, only $5,000 has been raised on behalf of the retired school teacher. At least another $25,000 needs to be raised for the 80-year-old Escalante.

Actor Edward James Olmos, who was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of Escalante, is currently organizing a major fundraiser.

Escalante taught math to troubled students at Garfield High School. Though the students were considered unteachable by some, Escalante was able to reach through to them and even started an advanced math program at the school.

Donations to Escalante’s medical fund are welcomed:

Friends of Jaime

236 West Mountain Street

Suite 105

Pasadena, CA  91103