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"Adult learning center extolls pilot program"
Author: Adriana M. Chávez / El Paso Times El Paso - Central El Pasoan Elvia Rodriguez knew that in order to make a better life for herself and her family, she had to pursue a post-secondary education. However, she wasn't confident in her English and writing skills, and it wasn't until she discovered a pilot program at the San Jacinto Adult Learning Center, 1216 Olive, that she decided to go through with her dreams. "I feel motivated to get into college," said Rodriguez, who plans to earn an associate's degree in accounting from El Paso Community College. "I want to live better with my daughters and show them that I need to reach my goals." The pilot program, a pre-transition to community college course, helps transition adults with a high school degree or GED into college-level courses, said Blanca Andrade, principal of San Jacinto Adult Learning Center. Center instructors Sylvia Ronquillo and Gerardo Guerrero work with Susan Tollefson, coordinator and instructor of EPCC's Literary Programs, to help adults strengthen their reading, writing and math skills, find out what careers interest them, understand the college system and culture and boost their confidence to pursue a college degree. "The objective is not to see that they can get in, but if they can stay and achieve their goals," Tollefson said. Andrade said the program began in early 2006 when EPCC officials approached several adult education centers with the idea to create a course to help transition adults into a post-secondary education. The first semester began in November with 14 students and ended in February. The second semester is now winding down with seven students. Next semester, students will be able to attend the course at the San Jacinto center during the day for free. Night classes will be offered at EPCC's Literacy Programs office at 9050 Viscount for a small fee, Andrade said. So far, the course has proven to be successful. "It has been very challenging and exciting," Ronquillo said. "We're trying to show our students processes in a way they can relate to so they can apply them to their lives." Westsider Loly Rodriguez said she initially signed up for the course to improve her English, but soon found the classes interesting. "Because of the course I feel prepared. It's been very helpful," said Rodriguez, who plans on studying medical laboratorial technology once she enters college. Adriana M. Chávez may be reached at achavez@elpasotimes.com; 546-6117. Get involved: The San Jacinto Adult Learning Center, 1216 Olive, is offering a free Pre-Transition to Community College Course during the day Monday through Friday.
An evening course will also be offered three days a week at El Paso Community College's Literacy Programs office at 9050 Viscount, Building B, Room 450, for a small fee.
The next semester will begin Aug. 18. Those who wish to enroll are asked to contact representatives at San Jacinto Adult Learning Center or EPCC as soon as possible. Dates for required orientation classes prior to the semester's start date will be scheduled.
Information: San Jacinto, 533-9073; EPCC, 831-7782.
San Jacinto Adult Learning Center site http://64.233.167.104/search?q=cache:Kn8TyPM9SeoJ:sanjacinto.episd.org/employment.html Copyright (c) 2008 El Paso Times, a MediaNews Group Newspaper. Record Number: 9450824
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