La Colectiva’s ESL Network of community language providers needs your help to ensure that the families you serve can access English programs that meet their needs. With the COVID-19 pandemic, several key program changes are making it difficult for prospective students to find the information they need. These students are searching for available programs nearby – or as close as their laptops or smartphones. They want to know about learning formats being offered this fall (in-person, online/remote and/or a combination of each [hybrid]) and what they will need to participate (internet / Wi-Fi, smartphone or computer learner, and in some cases, transportation and childcare). Information about program location, levels of instruction offered, learning format, and program contact phone number and/or website is now available at the La Colectiva website.
Please keep in mind that the information regarding learning format may change over the next month based on the availability of classroom space in schools, churches and libraries. With this uncertainty, most programs are planning for all or some virtual /online instruction – including “group” ZOOM classes. Information will be updated as soon as it is available.
In addition, it may be very helpful for you – or a Spanish-speaking staff member – to connect with the specific program contact person to facilitate communicating needed information – including how to register. Most programs have registration information at their websites and/or are holding registration events outside their locations. Some (events and websites) include orientation information and learning assessments. The Resource Navigation and Family Coaching Program at La Esperanza can help prospective ESL students to connect with the program most suited to their needs and can be contacted at (302) 854-9262.
In the near future, La Colectiva plans to support Spanish-speaking families by opening our bi-lingual Family Support Center where many can find the services and programs they need — including ESL Programs.
Without getting into the challenging work of our ESL partners, I just want to thank them for their dedication to insuring that learning will continue. All are working hard to adapt curricula, recruit and prepare instructors/volunteers, connect with new or previous students and to register them –online or outside. Thanks!