“They were regular kids, but at the same time you knew they were going to do something great. They were very smart," former chemistry teacher Carita Thomas told Texas Public Radio.
"They knew they wanted to finish school. And they knew they wanted to finish college," she added.
After graduating from law school, both brothers returned to San Antonio and went into public service. Joaquin became a Texas state legislator and is now a member of Congress.
Julian served as mayor of San Antonio, was secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Barack Obama, and is now running for president.