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When I was asked about teaching the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes for the Haitian Coalition, I had no idea what I was agreeing to do. Not only don’t I have a teaching background, but I also am not very comfortable talking in front of people for any extended amounts of time. Two “semesters” and about 10 months later, I would count my experience working with my students, one of the best most fulfilling experiences so far in my life.
My first day in the classroom, I was understandably nervous. While I had attended a brief training about ESL teaching, the training was more focused on one-on-one tutoring. I had no idea about classroom management, dealing with multi-level students, or curriculum development. I was thankful that I had recruited another student in my graduate program, someone who was an “insider” to the group we would be teaching. On that first day, getting over my nerves was the easiest thing and we had a great time – teachers and students alike.
I have stepped naturally into the role of coordinator for the program. I have successfully recruited 7 teachers and have retained 6. One of the things I have learned is that in order to teach effectively, we all have to become students once again. While I speak English fluently, I don’t remember the rules that go along with speaking a language that I take for granted. We all have had to spend time researching and meeting to discuss lessons. We have also had to put our frustrations aside and try to put ourselves into the shoes of an English Language Learner (ELL). We understand the difficulties that come along with navigating a language that is not our own.
One great aspect of the ESOL Program is the relationships we have all developed with our students. There is great love, trust, and respect for those being taught and those teaching. The bonds that have formed are quite unique and unexpected.
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Volunteer Opportunities
The Haitian Coalition is looking for dedicated volunteers who share their desire to make a positive impact on the community. Experience is not necessary; The Haitian Coalition has volunteers opportunities for everyone! Here are some particular areas in which volunteers are needed:
◊ ESL Tutors
◊ Creole Literacy Teachers
◊ Computer Tutors
◊ Voter registration
◊ Administrative/Writing Volunteers
◊ Event organizers
◊ MCAS/Home work Tutors
Interested in learning more about volunteering with the Haitian Collition? Call Franklin Dalembert at (617) 625-6400 or email him at franklin.dalembert@haitian-coalition.org |
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