Our Tutor Of The Year,
Cris Mendez !
National
City Library Literacy Services Newsletter: April 2021
In 1978, I worked at the International
Center for Language Studies in Bogota, as an ESL instructor during an extended
stay in Colombia. I found the experience rewarding and the eagerness learners
displayed inspiring. On my return to the U.S., I enrolled in college, met my future
husband, and life continued. Nonetheless, I remembered with fondness my
experience teaching ESL to learners, ranging in age 18 to 60, who were seeking
employment as flight attendants, in the field of hospitality and tourism to established
corporate executives to retirees, stay-at-home mothers, and other delightful
individuals.
An ESL Opening and Literacy Services:
Fast-forward to January 2018. An email
I received from the literacy
services at the National City Public Library highlighted an opening for a volunteer
ESL tutor. On the spot, I applied. After orientation, I was asked to lead a
class. I entered the classroom with a flutter of butterflies in my stomach, but
instantly, I felt at ease. Soon after, I was assigned to tutor a learner preparing
for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign
Language) exam. Within a few months, a learner skilled with computers joined,
then the third learner, and a wonderful ESL trio was formed. Shortly thereafter,
I was offered a group of learners for an evening class followed by another
group for a morning class, and the fun amplified.
🔽
Why I Recommend Tutoring:
Whether an individual is a tutor or a
learner, everyone has something to contribute. Seek tutoring in math, ESL,
computer readiness, writing classes, as well as unconventional classes, such as
driver’s license and citizenship test preparation—knowledge is key. I often
share with learners: as I am getting older, the more I realize there is still a
great deal for me to learn.
Teaching is more than imparting
knowledge, it is inspiring change.
Learning is more than absorbing facts, it is
acquiring understanding.
William Arthur Ward
READ
MORE ➤➤
Based on 7 readability formulas:
Grade Level: 10
Reading Level: fairly difficult to
read.
Reader's Age: 14-15 yrs. old
(Ninth to
Tenth graders)
Adult
Literacy Services
Helps adults improve their basic
reading, spelling, and math skills empowering them to reach their full
potential in life.
Are you an adult who needs help with
basic reading, math, or computer skills?
Do you need help studying for the GED
or citizenship test?
Call to find out if the Library Adult
Literacy Program is right for you! 619-470-5860
