ESL Kickoff Party

On January 11, an ESL class consisting of a dozen New Americans from five birth nations (Nepal, Afghanistan, Sudan, Congo, and Cuba) and staff had a party to kick off the new year.

Please know this class isn’t just about learning English. Rather, a twin goal is to provide students with the skills they need to be successful in their communities. Examples include the basics of money management and how to have a successful job interview. Drivers' education and cooking classes are offered as well as part of the curriculum.

Also, ESL is not just about the meaning of words, word order, or proper grammar. It is also about spiritual nurture where students are encouraged to share their concerns during prayer time. There is also great fellowship, and this is where the Kickoff Party comes in. If the purpose of the ESL class is to learn English, the purpose of the Kickoff Party was to help build relationships. And it is working. When asked why she enjoys coming to English class, one of the students replied, “I not only come here to learn to speak English better. I come here because I like the people. Everyone wants to help.”

Indeed—students, friends, and staff members enjoyed one another’s company over potato rolls and biryani: a rice dish with chicken, spices, and fruit (including oranges). This delicious dinner was prepared by a mother and daughter from Yemen with funds obtained through a Thrivent grant, provided by volunteer worker Christine Hoeman of Christ Memorial Lutheran Church.

ESL classes are offered at the Peace Center on Saturdays from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. and on Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. until 12 noon. More tutors are needed; if this interests you, contact me at KellyTeuscher@gmail.com or 314-604-5982.

By Kelly Teuscher Webster Gardens Lutheran Church