In the Spring of 2022, Jessica enrolled in The Literacy Coalition’s PALS ESL program to learn more English and develop her speaking skills. Dedicated and diligent, Jessica joined the class because she wanted to improve her English for her family, specifically her daughter.
Jessica shared that her daughter’s favorite PALS class activities included playing with the sensory bags and completing the writing and tracing sheets. They’d complete their homework together, and the flexibility and convenience of the virtual learning environment allowed Jessica to fit the class into her schedule easily. After completing the course, Jessica feels confident in not only her English skills, but also in her ability to help her daughter with homework and support her in school.
From the beginning of the class in March to the end in June, Jessica had the most improvement out of her classmates on her English language proficiency test, along with being one of the highest scorers! She shared that she loved how patient her teachers were and enjoyed how they taught class,”I think they did a great job. Fantastic!” When asked if she would recommend the course to anyone else, Jessica said, “Yes, definitely yes.”
Our PALS ESL program was Jessica’s first English class ever. Reflecting on the experience, sh
e said, “I’m proud to have completed the class. I’m thankful for the opportunity. I overcame my fear of speaking English. Now I’m thinking of taking classes at ACC.” Jessica is hoping to earn her GED next, and we’re excited to cheer her on as she continues to achieve her education and literacy goals!