English Learners Classes Prove to be Popular Offering
English Learners Classes Prove to be Popular Offering
The newly formed English Learners Classes available at the Grant County Public Library are underway and have 30 students enrolled. The first of the eight weekly sessions was conducted on Wednesday, October 19. Each week’s classes are offered at both 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesdays.
The free classes are taught by Keri Schliesman, with assistance from Joan Sacrison. The classes are possible because the library secured the Digital Literacy Grant from AT&T and the American Library Association.
According to Tammy Wollschlager, interim library director, Schliesman, a recently retired teacher, was a bit anxious initially. Schliesman’s initial comment was, “I don’t speak any Spanish to be able to teach these eager students.” But, Wollschlager reports that with Schliesman’s teaching expertise, she was off and running, teaching letter sounds of the English alphabet, days of the weeks, months, and preparing curriculum.
Homework was handed out for the next week’s classes. Other resources were distributed to help the students work on assignments at home or work throughout the week.
Even though the first class had passed, more students continued to sign up. “I knew there was a need for this for some time,” commented Wollschlager. “I was so excited to hear about the awarded grant, which kickstarted this into action. The class is new turf, and we are learning as we teach. We are so fortunate to have a great staff to fulfill the grant requirements and are eager to help as many as possible. Both Keri and Joan are dedicated to the program, and we look for this to have a huge impact on our county.”
As this session of classes draws to a close, decisions about the possibility of a second session will be made.
