Harrington Elementary Student Wins State Honors for Original Song Inspired by Family’s Immigration Story

OXNARD, Calif. -A fifth-grade student at Harrington Elementary School is earning statewide recognition after turning his family’s immigration story into an award-winning original composition.

Julián Salazar wrote "Más Allá del Muro Grande" ("Beyond the Great Border Wall"), a song inspired by his father's journey and the sacrifices many immigrant families make in search of a better life.

"The song speaks about how my dad lived his life. It also talks about how immigrants come here to have a great life," Julián said.

The original piece was performed during Harrington Elementary's fifth-grade culmination ceremony, where classmates, families and staff celebrated the young musician's achievement.

Julián's composition stood out among nearly 1,700 student entries from across California, advancing through the school, district and county competitions before reaching the state level in Fresno.

Written around the California PTA Reflections theme "I Belong," the song earned the California State PTA Award of Excellence in Intermediate Music Composition along with the Outstanding Interpretation Award.

His fourth-grade teacher, Josephine Noyola, said the school's PTA Reflections program gives students opportunities to express themselves creatively and showcase their talents.

For Julián's family, the recognition is about more than music.

His mother, Yaderi Salazar, said the song continues to bring emotion every time she hears it because it reflects not only their family's journey but also the experiences of many others facing challenges today.

The Salazar family says sharing their story helps their children stay connected to their heritage while understanding the sacrifices made by previous generations.

Julián's father, Luis Salazar, said he hopes his children always remember where they came from as they pursue their own dreams, adding that he is proud of his son and will continue supporting him in everything he chooses to do.