St. Francis County Literacy Council

Willa Wilkison

I want to share about two very special adults I have the privilege of tutoring in Adult Basic Literacy.  Ms. J has a 4^th grade education and has come to the literacy council for help as she works toward earning her GED.  She works as a janitor for a school.  She hopes to get a better job when she gets her GED.  I have seen so much improvement in her reading skills.  Her speech has improved also.  I feel this is due to her hard work and determination.  She is a strong woman and I really enjoy working with her.  We will begin working in math as well when the school year ends and she can commit to more hours.  I am very proud of her progress and her determination.

T. is another very special student.  He is always on time for his scheduled sessions.  He works very hard and does not get discouraged.  I think his spirit is amazing.  He works on his lessons after leaving classes, even when he hasn’t been assigned any homework.  His confidence in reading has increased, as he now feels comfortable reading aloud to a group.  He lives alone, so it is not easy for him.  With his determination and wonderful attitude I know we will continue to see success.

Felisa Grace

Having studied three different languages and still being fluent in none, I have the utmost respect for those who want to learn English. This group of students, like those I have had the privilege to teach before, come with enthusiasm, good humor, and a sincere desire to learn a difficult language. They all work fulltime and manage their leisure hours so that they spend time each week studying English and coming to class. It is a pleasure to meet with them twice weekly and help them with the basics of the language as well as phrases that will help with them with their jobs and day to day living. Learning the language in any country is a big step toward being able to take care of one’s own needs in that country and feeling competent to deal with any situations that may arise. These students are eager to learn and have already begun to apply the things they learn, first on their jobs and secondly, in the larger environment.

We have had excellent support from the Literacy Council and East Arkansas Community College.

Janet Benson

My experience as a tutor in the ESL class at the Ameca restaurant can be summed up in one word….rewarding. In fact, serving these students as they strive to learn to speak English is probably one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done. Their enthusiasm is contagious. They are so eager to learn, and so excited when they can recognize that they have made strides in their efforts. Using a combination of formal instruction of the basic parts of speech, and more informal instruction of practical life applications has allowed us to keep each class meeting fresh for both students and tutors. We are leading each other through the learning process, and it is thoroughly enjoyable.

Karla Odhiambo

I would like to write about one of my basic literacy adults, whose name is Sherri. As an adult, Sherri has had surgery on her brain, which left her with an inability to recall and comprehend what she reads.

Prior to working with Sherri, she had been enrolled in the local Vo-Tech school’s Adult Basic Education class, for the past three years. This class serves as preparation for students to enter into the G.E.D. program, which Sherri was quite desirous to enter into. After working with Sherri for about four months, I am pleased to report, that Sherri has finally passed her Basic Literacy requirement test, and is now enrolled into the G.E.D. program at the Vo-Tech school. Sherri continues her tutoring sessions, and is doing well.

Sen Thi Le

I am from Vietnam. I came to USA five years ago. I have studied English for 3 months. I like school because I learn English. I want to learn so I can talk with customers in my nail shop.

Margarita Eloisa Plaseucia

My name is Margarita and I am from Mexico City, Mexico. I now live in Arkansas, which is the Natural State. I have learned how to pronounce words and I understand English a little better. I have very good teachers.

Anonymous

I started my classes at the St. Francis County Literacy Council in July 2006. I came to the Literacy Council because I wanted to improve my education level and I needed to begin by bringing my reading skills up. 

I have improved my reading level because of the personal one-on-one tutoring I have received in this program. I have been to a number of schools, but I have never found a learning environment like this one. Mrs. Walton is always prepared for class, is always looking for new materials to challenge me, and I enjoy each lesson. I always learn something new. This is the most effective way of learning I have ever experienced. 

I am looking forward to being able to pass an entry test soon to go into the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program.