Cecilia began her ESOL career in 1993, she describes “I was approached by Agnes Saenz who was the accountant at Community Ministries of Rockville (CMR) at the time. CMR wanted to begin a Latino Outreach Program (LOP) with the goal of helping the Latino community learn English as well as other communication skills. I started as a volunteer Spanish Literacy Teacher and as a child tutor.” Seven years later she became the director of the Language Outreach Program.
In line with American Community Survey data, Cecilia reports that approximately 51% of learners come from El Salvador, 35% from Honduras, 22% from Peru. 28% are from other countries, primarily in Central and South America. Some Asians, West Africans, Haitians, Russians, and other Eastern Europeans. About three-quarters of her learners are female with a quarter being men. They have jobs in construction, landscaping, child care, and housekeeping.
Cecilia is a perfect fit for the demographic the program serves. As a Latina she understands the language, culture and backgrounds of the learners who come to LOP. When asked why she thinks so many of the students are female she says, “LOP offers free childcare and child tutoring for students. This is a great help for mothers who tend to have the responsibility of childcare in their families. LOP is the best choice for learners who cannot afford additional childcare costs and want the ease of childcare at the same time and location as their classes.”
Of the many learner success stories she has, one she remembers is the resilient spirit of Sylvia:
In the story of Sylvia, we see the hard work and dedication of LOP learners. When asked what makes LOP programs unique, Cecilia says “free childcare and preschool readiness for children under five is offered as well as tutoring assistance for all school age children."
Students often have to navigate through multiple challenges in their quest of learning. By providing free childcare for those who need it, LOP makes it possible for mothers (and fathers), who would otherwise not be able to attend English classes.
For more information about CMR and the different services they provide, please click here.
