Warner Robins, Ga. – Whether someone chooses to improve their English language skills to find a job, earn a college degree, or industry certification at CGTC, the Adult Education English Language Program (ELP), offers a unique immersion environment and experiences with U.S. culture. ELP students spend a substantial portion of their academic time working on language acquisition and academic achievements that dramatically broaden their perspective and prepare them for their future career goals.
Ysabella Escalona was a student in the program for three months, and the program’s effect on her transition to America was apparent. A very eager and responsible learner, Escalona, a Venezuelan native, moved swiftly through classes achieving her goals and enrolling in Accelerating Opportunity classes while finishing the program. She graduated with a GED® diploma and enrolled at Middle Georgia State University right away. Her major there is New Media and Communications, and she just finished her first semester with an excellent GPA.
Ysabella Escalona’s mother, Yohar Martinez, an independent professional in Venezuela, could not continue with her professional career in the U.S. due to her lack of English Language skills either. Martinez, a business administration professional in her native country, dedicated her life to improving her fellow citizens’ quality of life through building personal and economic capacities. While enrolled in the ESL program, she was forced to take jobs outside of her profession, while enhancing her English skills. After taking English classes for several months, Martinez is making progress and gaining confidence in her grasp of the English language.
As faculty in CGTC’s ELP, we provide students the skills and guidance needed to become independent individuals that can productively function in the community, while meeting their personal and career goals. Escalona and Martinez took advantage of the English classes offered in our program and they are working toward their goals. Both are excellent students. They consistently participated in class, took the lead in class discussions, worked on computer programs to improve, and steadily took the initiative to help other students who struggle. Through all of this, both have demonstrated teamwork. I have been very fortunate to have them in my class and applaud them for the tenacity they demonstrated to attain their goals and become independent women.
– By Rosa Lobato de Hubbard, ESL/Civics Instructor
