Student who lived in shack cries when teacher rewards his kindness

While most Nikki Rowe seniors are itching to get out of school, Armando Beltran doesn't want to leave to school.
The 19-year-old spent most of his life in foster care.
With no real family to call his own, the school has been Armando's only true home.
He often spends 12 hours a day there.
Cynthia Villegas teaches English at the school.
She says she'll never forget Mando's caring ways.
"He has nobody to turn to...Parents or family," said Cynthia. "And yet he's so optimistic and he's such a good kid... And everybody who meets him... Loves him."
He volunteers in the library, helps staff in any way and always remains positive, according to Cynthia.
It's amazing for her to see considering he once lived in a shack and still rides his bike for miles to and from school.
Cynthia says he also works a number of odd jobs to help make ends meet.
He's unable to get a real job because he doesn't have a social security number.
"I wanted to Pay it 4Ward to Armando because he gives us hope," said Cynthia. "He's got a good heart and I just want him to have a better future."
Pronto Insurance has the Pay it 4Ward prize.
"Usually it's the staff that's nominated for the Pay it 4Ward program," said Domingo Reyna with Pronto Insurance. "Being able to recognize a student brings us joy at Pronto Insurance. On behalf of Pronto Insurance and Action 4 News, here's $400 for you to Pay it 4Ward."
With the money in hand, Cynthia joins Action 4's Ryan Wolf for the surprise.
Armando is volunteering in the school library at the time.
Ryan: I'm Ryan Wolf with Action 4 News. Are you Armando Beltran?
Armando: Yes.
Ryan: You look very surprised to see me.
Armando: Yes. I have no idea.
Cynthia broke the news to him about the surprise.
Cynthia: Your story inspires us all... Thank you.
Armando: I don't expect things for return for what I've done for them.
The recognition was overwhelming for Armando who started to cry.
He already gets help from some Nikki Rowe staff who donate money from their own pockets for his bills.
The money has enabled him to move into an apartment.
He never realized the impact he was making on other people's lives.
The Pay it 4Ward recognition only reaffirms why he calls his school-- home.
Armando: I live alone, and when I come back, at least I have somebody to talk to. This is my last year and even though I'll come to visit them. I will miss that affection you hear every day. Talking to them... And having a good time with them. It's because I haven't been with my family for a long time. So I've always been alone... So this is kind of my family here.
Bridgette Vieh is the high school's principal.
She believes Mando's impact at school will last long after he's gone.
Principal: He doesn't feel sorry for himself, he doesn't expect things. He's just a real grateful student that's looking forward and he's just a great young man. I just feel like there's hope... That we can raise our kids that way.
While the $400 prize is a shocker, Mando knows he's far richer with family-- His Nikki Rowe family.
Armando: It's just that I really want to have a different thing in my life. I really don't want to live like where my parents lived. I really don't want to worry about that anymore. So every time I come here and I see them (staff) I like them so much, and they helped me so much. It's like a lot of help.
Helping from the heart, it's more way to "Pay it 4Ward."
Armando was born in the US, but at home with no midwife or doctor.
The Texas legal system is assisting him with obtaining a birth certificate and social security number soon.
Once that happens, he hopes to join the military.
Click here to nominate someone for Pay it 4Ward
Click here to join Ryan Wolf's Facebook page
Click here to follow Ryan Wolf on Twitter

[@blancaleon5266]

why is everyone hating on him for being Mexican ? My family is from Mexico ....its a beautiful place :) no need to hate :) ......And can someone Please give him a scholarship ? Like please ?

[@2012spacetraveler]

Blanca Leon The funny thing is he is an American, born and raised, so these folks that are hating on him are clueless, hang on he is Texan first then American...lol

[@sonnywolf383]

Blanca Leon Who ever hates Mexican is a low life trash, don't worry about those haters

[@bs2502]

Blanca Leon It's not everyone hating on him Blanco, in reality it is only a small number that do it and unfortunately the filth that they spew from their lips will always be louder. The fact is their would be many more millions of people who respect this young guy and would do anything to help him out. Don't let these haters make you feel sad because they have problems and are unhappy. Hold your head up and be proud of your roots from Mexico. I think Mexico and her people are awesome. Brett. Sydney, Australia.

[@blancaleon5266]

bs2502 thank you so much ! You're right I shouldn't let them make me sad I'm proud of where I cane from :) thanks for the advice !

[@lavenarussell6363]

It is refreshing to hear of a young man that is living his life to the best of his ability. Hopefully his "school family" will continue to support and love him. Luck and prayers for success in everything he tries to do.

[@karenrich9092]

The military will be LUCKY to have this young man serving in whatever branch he chooses.

[@Marchoupi]

He got me inspired, even a little teary eyed, he's got nobody , no family, no home yet he keeps on fighting. I wish him all the luck in the world.

[@ashleykoivisto8138]

This guy always puts others first. Performing good deeds without asking for anything in return. His kindness will take him very far in life.

[@shirleyelliott242]

An amazing young man. He doesn’t take anything for granted and is so humble and grateful. God bless you son

[@mrbigg151]

That young man will go very far in life. Keep it up.

[@thomaskostka2083]

If I wasn't retired I would be proud to serve with this young man.

[@edithbannerman4]

@Hello there, how are you doing this blessed day?

[@catherinesmith4551]

A great teacher, a great school and a great young man. May GOD rain down blessings on all of them!💕

[@davidimhoff2118]

Wow awesome kid. We all need people as outstanding as him in this world.

[@edithbannerman4]

@Hello there, how are you doing this blessed day?

[@purelight821]

Bless you Armando for remaining a good person despite your circumstances. Good for you.

[@heatherdeleon2251]

Guys $400 may not be a lot for college, but this kid needs it, and to him it's a lot, especially for a foster child. Congrats!😊

[@grumpyoldlady_rants]

I can’t imagine growing up and not having a family to be there. So sad.

[@schanychamemphis1327]

it happens way too often.

[@grumpyoldlady_rants]

@@schanychamemphis1327 - unfortunately…

[@buffalohawk65]

Armando has the heart of a lion. To persevere, to keep grinding it out day after day. He WILL succeed because he has what it takes. I don't care what color his skin is, he is a human being and a winner. This community should be ashamed for allowing this to happen to him. God bless him.

[@annecorey607]

He is so good kind heart teacher to give this poor guy money to help him out very sad for this guy it turn out very good thank you for sharing Bless you all.

[@traceyfurlong7789]

Armondo is going to be one hell of a man!! The world belongs to people like him...Thank God!

[@DaDevilHimself]

he was with me in rotc class he always helped me alot

[@gklinger]

For those that are curious, he received his birth certificate and SSN shortly after this aired and was later awarded a second $400 prize (first two time winner). I believe he has joined the military and hopes to eventually become a police officer. All he wants to do is serve his country and community. Wow. What an outstanding young man.

[@gulfgypsy]

+Golan Klinger I hope Armando reaches all his goals, I hope his good heart and sense of determination, never fades. Most of all, I hope his dreams come true.

[@nippsandips]

What good news this is.

[@jasonpatterson8091]

Thank you for the update. This was a nice story, but we all know how fast $400 goes. It's nice to know that he has a way forward to a good life.

[@dominiquevenezia3706]

thank you so much for the update,I'm so proud of this young man and I wish him a wonderful life

[@Linda-vx4fn]

Thanks Golan. Nice to hear how things are going for him.

[@brandonjuber3576]

I don't care where he is from or where he was born, I'm proud to call him a fellow American! And also a fellow human being. We need more like him.

[@rickyfowler9783]

I went to school with a guy who live with his grandmother. She live in a small house with a dirt floor. When we graduated he did so with honor. He was one of the smartest person I have ever known

[@marylawson6060]

We hear so many stories of people expecting the government to keep them up and then this great young man doing what is right. We never fail when we choose to help people and by doing right. Keep him safe Lord Jesus.

[@marleenninaka2858]

Mary Lawson Amen to that!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@marilyng1944]

Help him to continue education and a good home , no military or police profession.

[@HeavyLikesSandwich]

I think he spends so much time in school just to be able to interact with other people as he's really lonely, Wish him the very best and i truly hope he gets everything he desires.

[@ChristianLove59]

God bless this young man, to include all those who have supported him to this day.

[@MBGolfer]

That is a real man. He is working hard to be a responsible young man. What a great kid!!!

[@TheShizue777]

Great, great, great, great, great, great, great story! Thank you, Armando, for being such a tender, sweet, appreciative human being. Continued success forever.

[@WildlifeObsessed]

Overwhelming story. He just brightened my day. A wonderful example to all of us. Congratulations !

[@irisbradley8777]

Amazing young fellow. He will go far with his positive attitude. And no wonder he loves the school. They ARE his family

[@debbierosinger2396]

Bless this young man hope all of his dreams come true and be around the people that's he knows a wonderful young man with a heart of gold always amen

[@VelvetGal5]

This is such a nice story. I got some tears in my eyes when I saw how touched Armando was in that he was recognized & appreciated for everything he has done. He has lived a hard life with no real family & going through foster care system. I'm glad that his school was like the family he never had. He has a good, positive, selfless, kind attitude after everything he's been through & doesn't have a chip on his shoulder. Good for him. He's a strong, hardworking, caring good guy! Nice story! :-)

[@TheCreativeAutistic37]

when i was in college a lot of staff did a lot of things for me that i couldn't do for mryself. Its a blessing really how nice people can be

[@lilnip67]

This kid will be what it really means to be an American hero.

[@jokibud-sm1kr]

Just stop argueing and fighting with one and other,we just watched a human receiving a gift through the kindness of his teacher. that's why the world is what it is today because people argue fight and kill because of skin colour and religion. time to get along ppl for yours and family's sake.

[@coolkingww2d-daygillespie196]

Aww this makes me cry he's such a great young man , I pray he has a blessed life for the rest of his life .

[@rubenruvalcaba585]

Who else started crying when he received the 400 dollars Good young man. GOD bless him 😇💜😄😇

[@renerosales8832]

lucifer bless him

[@alexandervega4381]

lol

[@swampfox5329]

Lucifer... all Lucifer wants to do is lie, kill and destroy.

[@georgiojansen7758]

I

[@vlone3990]

Ruben Ruvalcaba r

[@DaDevilHimself]

I know Mando he already has a car and he got a good job Last time I saw him at dtronics he had an HHR and he was wearing nice clothes God has been good with him he is a real warrior

[@ML-zf5hu]

Seeing this today, oh how the world has changed.. Today is not what I wanted the world to be. May God help and have mercy on us. God bless this man.

[@prabhanjand]

Money isn't important..people care for him..that's priceless

[@solukhumbu911]

i don't know why everyone is sympathizing for him, i am actually jealous. he is rich in heart and spirit , how much i yearn for that

[@lowesonia8551]

nothing is more rewarding in life than doing something, for those who need a helping hand . Kindness is a therapy of its own. Give it a try . The shy , the lonely, the unhapppy, even the grumpy ones . There are far more 'good ' people around in % . Wealth doesent bring well being Empathy, does.

[@sultown4343]

This is what I love about America. We raise money, donate, and give each other a helping hand when in need. We're not perfect, but then again, who is? God bless this boy :)

[@secretsoneclar652]

And than you have Australia....

[@sultown4343]

secret soneclar Australia is all over the place

[@melissa-zm1or]

Lol, you have to crack heads running for presidents and you have shootings literally every day. Las vegas is full of sluts and whores. mic.com/articles/121660/7-reasons-the-united-states-is-the-greatest-country-in-the-world#.7OP192hhs I certainly don't love America

[@melissa-zm1or]

Lucas True. But, fuck Hilary and trump

[@SmithdoesMinecraft]

im pretty sure other countries do this too...............

[@kaitlynlouviere4830]

I love my teacher so much. I've been going through a lot and my teacher ended up noticing because I usually participate a lot in class and answer questions quickly, but I started to have trouble focusing and I didn't really want to raise my hand or say anything at all. He tried to talk to me three times. But I'm so stupid that I've never let him help. I kind of wish that I had talked to him because he is so kind and I know he would help me and protect me from the other more rude students now that it's summer break. Thankfully, I get him again next year because he teaches two grades and I will talk to him if I still have these problems.

[@LesCish]

All too often such hardships in childhood lead to completely different outcomes as adults. If only there were some formula to replicate this young man's outcome! I can only wish him the best and hope he remains well.

[@shazzataz]

He proves it dosnt matter how you start life you can do well such an inspiration and incredible young man

[@deadgirldelilahable]

Somebody give this kid a scholarship. Young man deserves to go far. I'd love to hear in the future that he has come back to teach at this school. Seems like he loves it there.

[@terrikukla5017]

If he goes into the military, they will give him a scholarship.

[@wildbill23c]

@@terrikukla5017 Doesn't really work that way. They help pay for your tuition at certain schools and for certain courses. If he plans on becoming a police officer I do believe the military will help fund those types of courses as well, however, it would not surprise me if he joins the military and makes a career out of it instead, he could be an MP (Military Police), and I bet he would do great. Maybe a teaching career in the future if he decides to change his ideas, who knows, he could do whatever he wants to really....and the military will sure help given what he wants to do they will pretty much pay for everything just some certificate type courses, and non-accredited schools they don't pay for but everything major the military will definitely take care of.

[@lmoughterson6702]

It is very refreshing to see a student that doesn't act like he's entitled, but (instead) pays back in kindness what he is grateful to receive. If only more of us were like Armando.

[@teejay6625]

it's amazing and he's a very handsome young man. I hope he finds himself a good girlfriend and hopefully she doesn't take the advantage of his kind ❤💜💛💚💗

[@organbuilder272]

How nice that someone would give this boy a break. He didn't deserve it - He earned it and that is far better.

[@pevangel1954]

Armando is an inspiration to all of us, I hope he has reached his dreams, God Bless his dreams...................

[@CalTxDude]

I wonder what's become of this young man with such a sweet soul and loving heart.

[@chrissycarter1127]

This boy obviously has Christ in his heart!

[@jackiehardy2415]

I wish this man a very wonderful life he deserves it he deserves more than what he thinks he deserves he's everything in life. Everybody should call their son their brother there nephew their cousin there are uncle their friend wherever you at I don't know you but I wish you all the luck in the world God bless you

[@gsmith5140]

Got me crying at my desk. Beautiful for a beautiful boy. ❤

[@billytxn]

UPDATE: Armando's story reached the judge who handled his birth certificate request and the Judge signed it the following Monday. He still plans to join the Army and hopes to continue his education so that he may one day be a police officer. Interestingly because his story touched so many people he was selected for a second Pay It 4Ward award making him the first two-time recipient of the award to date. Unfortunately this is the only update I could find which was dated August 9, 2012.

[@MikeLRGCar]

I'm very happy for Him... Wish Armando best of life...people like Him will do good for others knowing their own childhood... Best regards... I wish I can shake His hand some day... Great story ! Cheers... Mike

[@sandman7378]

Incredible young man and great to see people recognize potential and kindness. All the best!

[@JGIgirl]

I hope he becomes very successful and will continue to be blessed, I love stories like this, I don't care what color he is.

[@nataliec2685]

How does color have anything to do with this?

[@JGIgirl]

If you need to know someone posted a comment about his race, that's how race came about, smh

[@JGIgirl]

Natalie being that you were on here just 2 days ago and saw this KZbin video you're not aware that someone had made a comment about his race and deleted the comment thank you for your concern positivity only thank you

[@JGIgirl]

What!!! ?? Nathan Johnston​ really are you serious????

[@chanakya7339]

+Janelle Hart He is trolling you..don't believe it..

[@paintur68]

What a beautiful soul with such a tender heart. May G-D bless him and all those who help him.

[@carolegreen9938]

What an incredible young man and I wish him every happiness in life.

[@bradhill1099]

Hope he finds a good woman gets married, and starts a family so he will have one to love, and get loved back...

[@amberhall1288]

Brad Hill Me too 😊

[@michellegamino1529]

small acts of human kindness can change the world!

[@DizzyedUpGirl]

If more schools were as caring as this one, the world would be a much better place. I wish for only good things for the staff that helps this young man.

[@elainewarren8552]

This young man so deserves the $400 and I pray he has a great life filled with love he's given to others.

[@tatianagalvao2316]

This made me cry

[@david3714]

same and I'm a boy but who cares right he deserves it

[@jorjahdaws3022]

+Tatiana Galvao to me

[@vivcalas7772]

me too

[@finestnrmx2882]

+Tatiana Galvao me to

[@keishalyon1410]

Same here.

[@Candy-hi9on]

This story was sweet and sad. This story had me in tears. I'm glad he's doing well.

[@vikingpower9340]

Good deeds are something that all of us need to do every day. Hold a door for a total stranger and say good morning. Have a nice day, Even a smile helps. What a different world we would have if we all tried a bit harder. Happy Holidays everyone!

[@redrangerrr5986]

Stay in school kids for you should see it as a preserving road with hope that can get you far in life instead of seeing it like a prison where you learn nothing because face you do learn and you do have freedom. Be educated,be strong, be kind and you will have a good life.

[@Tribulatoryfighter]

Too precious! Bless him!

[@strawberryboy7003]

Yes Bless all kind people

[@tinabrown2674]

😂😂 What a heart-touching story. I want this young to have a successful life. Now, if someone could share this video with the right connections, he could have a true stable home (1 to 3 years paid rent & utilities) with furnishings, paid training/apprenticeship or college education. That was a wonderful thing that the school did for him. It's important and good to see that ppl care for our youth. I hope someone will help him so that he has a good future. I wish him the best. What a nice story to start the day! Wow!

[@gcmacyman]

May God ever bless this incredible young man and the educators who believe in him..My heart is full...

[@ebenclukey7293]

He's the kind of person who will make an excellent police officer. I'm sure he'll make a huge impact on whichever community he serves.

[@lolcodbruh6096]

I wasn't gonna cry then her voice cracked and tears formed

[@caisok612]

lolcodbruh . omg me too .. dam these onions

[@haroldrincon5221]

crap, who is cutting onions near me:(

[@ReddAndLoveely]

haha

[@OG_ISHADOW]

Harold Rincon lol

[@georgiojansen7758]

must be close to me as well

[@sillyshenanigan2108]

It would be wonderful if he could end up working as a teacher in that school someday!! ❤

[@rtc1964rc]

What a great dude,good for him, God bless and good luck to him and I hope his future is as bright as the sun....✝️

[@darkespeon64]

teachers really can be kind when my parents stopped supporting me my senior year they got me a job which provided me food and money, cloths, and even pulled some strings to help me graduate

[@Happybidr]

I would be proud to have a young man like this as my son.

[@karenslater9869]

Cried My Eyes Out! God Bless That Sweet Young Man!!! 💖

[@sarahwilloughby2509]

I wish we could get an update on this special young man. I wish him all the best.

[@FreeAdoption]

Sarah Willoughby he is going to college and he works part time as a library aid in that same school. I just graduated from that school and he is still there

[@joxniwarlock8245]

FreeAdoption - awesome, what an amazing person, and story!!! He is surrounded by people who generally care for him! He's a lucky man, with not so lucky circumstances. This will make him a great man!

[@tsuyukonakagawa3475]

Sarah Willoug

[@laurajones1019]

Sharing r&B SONG

[@wildbill23c]

@@FreeAdoption That's great, thanks for the information, wonder if he's still there in 2021.

[@mikehunt3985]

I know its too late being 3 years ago but how can i contact Mr. Armando?, I would like to pay for his first semester of college,

[@TraumatisedKoala]

+mike hunt Maybe you could contact the school? They might have a forwarding address or something.

[@dinh5532]

+mike hunt I would like to as well. Somebody should set up a funding campaign for him!!

[@gingerlee]

+mike hunt I think this is his facebook account: facebook.com/nbeltranromero?fref=ts

[@dinh5532]

Ginger-Lee Yanga It's not.

[@gingerlee]

+dinh ok. my bad.

[@larrykaufman8100]

Asking GOD'S blessings for this special young man and the school staff!

[@margaretcabral535]

I wish this boy all the luck, hope he gets a scholarship and if he goes into service he does not come back disabled and injured. Going into the service is unfortuntly his only choice with no home or family. Hope he is lucky not to get injured and disabled in the service.

[@TehHerdyBoii]

GIVE HIM A JOB!

[@chiquitabananaforeva]

What an inspiring young man!!!! I hope wonderful things come to him!!!

[@lauriecleveland1747]

incredible! I hope he can continue with his giving ways. Nice story.

[@tiger2338]

You gotta love a kid like that.

[@brandonwright1001]

Man, I love most hispanic people! What a good kid. That's what I like about most mexican-americans, they have this humility, despite being such a tough people. I always had an affinity for the mexicanos.

[@supersonic9705]

Brandon Wright thanks :)

[@lynnkosick7857]

H

[@erafina3764]

God bless Armando. May he always be good and caring. May he have many blessings.

[@MrBober99]

Wonderful man thats the kind of guy we need to help he loves people and country. GOD BLESS HIM ALWAYS.MAGA with young men like him.Love his story.

[@aCegr018]

If he is a good student as you say, he sure can get a job at that school after he finishes it.Give the kid a job he never leaves.Good story though, need more people like this, the sad part is people only are kind when life forces them, some may not understand this, but this dude is a real example

[@blackfeatherarchery]

That is a good kid,

[@AncientTruthSeeker]

Wow great dude! I hope he has an excellent life!

[@gimj1_8]

Well if he keeps his attitude and strong will he will defo make it jn life no question great young man deserves all the help and support he can get

[@BillyAlabama]

Armando is just the kind of person I’d like to have for a neighbor. I think everyone would.

[@lauries383]

Watching this makes me sad and happy for him. What a great young man. I’m happy he’s had some positive people in his life.

[@OMGitsTerasu]

these are those whom i feel the most sorrow. those who have the utmost love of life and optimism and due to misfortune, his circumstances lead him to a shack and miles upon miles to and from school.

[@d4914]

Give him a job. That is how you can help him. Hire him to the school. !!

[@cuntessa1017]

A beautiful story and a beautiful heart within this beautiful young man.

[@marleenninaka2858]

Fuck You! WATCH YOUR LANGUAGE!!!!!!!!!!!! HOW DARE YOU SIGN YOUR NAME LIKE THAT TO SOMEONE WHO IS HOMELESS AND MADE A MAJOR DIFFERENCE TO HIS COMMUNITY!!!!!!!!!!👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹👹

[@melinaavila8071]

Aww love this, good to know that there's still good people out there helping others! May god bless him:)

[@albaproductions9602]

Wow an inspiration to many, I hope good things come your way Armando.

[@karaokehero1351]

This is humility at it's best. God Bless You, Armando.

[@letsgotocuba]

Why can the world be like this. Stories like this makes my day.

[@tiffanyrae3486]

I feel real sad for this guy he has no Mom no dad no family he doesn't even have a birth certificate or a social security... and the only thing that he has is his family at school he feels he's going to lose.. what we take for granted we should stop because there are people like this that are going through this daily people who don't deserve it people who are good people but instead they get less

[@mrunknownz3117]

God bless you amando hope you have a good life☺️☺️