A Note from our Executive Director
Dear friend,
When Lupe, the assistant teacher in our Ladybugs class told me that she wanted to learn more about teaching, I was supportive. But, then she told me that she didn’t have money to pay for classes – and that it was hard – almost impossible – to pass her classes because they were in English. Lupe’s spoken English is good, but reading, writing and following a lecture presents more of a challenge.
As you know, we offered our staff up to $500 per semester to cover tuition and books. Lupe signed up for two classes. Each time I saw Lupe, I asked her how her classes were going. “They’re hard,” she would tell me. “I’m learning. My nephew is helping me by reviewing my papers.” “I hope I pass.” In December, when classes were over, Lupe approached me with a big smile. “I passed both of my classes. I got an A in both!” Words cannot express how proud I am of Lupe – and of all our other teachers and teachers aides who took and passed classes last semester. Most of them are taking more classes now. There are not enough early childhood teachers.
If we want to meet the needs of our community, we must grow our own staff. Our team needs to know that we believe in them and we are investing in their growth. Thank you for your help in making that happen. And, if you’d like to contribute to support our teacher development effort, we’d be happy to accept your contribution by
clicking here.
Lori Goodman
Executive Director
