Cross-Border support helps Calexico adults learn English
Adrik Vargas
CALEXICO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) – A group of local adults are being recognized in Calexico for a major step forward, learning English.
At a recent “Ceremonia de Logro” held at Camarena Memorial Library, students celebrated the progress they’ve made in a beginner-level English course.
Many of them are working adults and immigrants who carved out time from their busy lives to take on the challenge.
“Once you’re there in the course, you realize, you know what, it’s not as hard as I thought,” said Kimberly, one of the students honored. “So I invite everyone and I motivate everyone, cause if I can do it so can you.”
The program is a shared effort between Educación Continua 16 de Septiembre and the Mexican Consulate in Calexico.
Andrés Daniel Ruelas Yanez, director of the group, says English is essential in the Imperial Valley.
“Here English is the primary language so you have to learn how to communicate and I know with this our fellow nationals will have more opportunities not just personally, but job wise too,” he said.
Teacher Pamela Garcia, who works closely with the students, says it takes more than just showing up to class.
“One of the main advices I can give is practice, stop being shy about other circumstances, because no matter how hard or difficult it can be, there’s always a chance to practice,” she explained.
For Kimberly, the ceremony marked more than just a certificate, it was a personal victory.
“I’m so grateful to my teacher, with this program that gave me this opportunity because it was a goal I set for myself,” she said. “I said, ‘You know what? If I can do this in four months, then keep going. I’m gonna get it done.'”
As the clapping and cheers filled the library, students walked away with more than recognition, they left believing they can accomplish even more.