Updates from the classroom
“Thank you very much for the certificate! I am at Level 5 in English. I am at IINE, the Institute International New England. I’m not giving up.”
-An ESOL Student
Spring Graduation
Our ESOL community has a lot to celebrate! Spring Cycle 27 wrapped up on July 13, with Tom Dwyer as President and Executive Director and Mary Dwyer, his wife and our ESOL Program Director, visiting each final class to congratulate students. Tom told the students they are welcome here in our country, political rhetoric to the contrary notwithstanding. He and Mary applauded their determination and resilience, and thanked them for the richness, diversity and new energy they bring to our communities.
The students happily shared with Tom and Mary a bit of their personal stories while proudly showcasing their newfound English skills and smiling broadly while their teachers beamed and complimented them as well.
ESOL Certificates denoting their accomplishments were virtually awarded and sent via via WhatsApp shortly afterwards to 50 students. That, in turn, prompted grateful replies, like the ones below. One resourceful student, it appears, even enlisted help from AI in sending his message, commenting effusively, extensively, and beautifully in perfect English on his happiness with the Program!
- “Hello, thank you for the great opportunity that you would give me, I want to continue to grow with you, thank you very much.”
- Hello, Director, How are you? I was delighted to receive your message this morning. Thank you very much for the certificate! I am at Level 5 in English. I am at IINE, the Institute International New England. I’m not giving up.
- Very Dear Director Mary Dwyer, allow me to express my deep gratitude for everything. Sincerely thank you for your support and accompaniment.
Summer Cycle 28 is now underway with five classes (one in-person at Emmanuel Church near the center of Boston; four virtual), serving 73 adult learners over the coming eight weeks, thanks to the dedication of 10 volunteer teachers and assistants plus one substitute teacher.
To our supporters who make this program possible, each class was told of your generosity in underwriting the classes – from the textbooks to the supplies to the training to the Zoom fees to the testing and placement services. We all make this happen – volunteer teachers and aides and student relationship managers and our kind donors.
Volunteer With Us
By volunteering for our ESOL program, you will make a direct impact on the lives of others. This is an opportunity to support newly arrived immigrants, form meaningful relationships with students and other volunteers, and join a community working toward a more just and inclusive society.
Volunteers are provided with training and a curriculum designed by our partner, Jewish Vocational Service. Prior teaching and other language skills are not required.
STORIES FROM OUR ESOL PROGRAM
Catch up on the latest stories and updates from our program.
Welcoming Immigrants: English for Speakers of Other Languages Classes
The natural next step to our work, engaging in faithful advocacy, is direct service to our communities in need. Our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program serves students both online and in-person in Boston. ... Read More>
Teaching (More Than) English to Immigrants
AFTDJ is an all-volunteer, interfaith organization. Our remarkably talented volunteers are committed and compassionate, supported by funding from our equally compassionate and generous donors. What begins as an act of service or a straightforward donation is transformed into something deeper: a spir... Read More>
Volunteer Spotlight: Mary Kate Egan, ESOL Volunteer
For Mary Kate, volunteering has been a lifelong commitment. From working with an Irish aid agency in Uganda to serving with the United Nations Volunteer program in Tanzania, she has long been drawn to supporting others.AFTDJ is an all-volunteer, interfaith organization. Our remarkably talented volunteers are committed and compassionate, supported by funding from our equally compassionate and generous donors. What begins as an act of service or a straightforward donation is transformed into something deeper: a spir... Read More>
Volunteer Spotlight: Susan Bennett
When Susan retired after more than 50 years as a primary care physician, the pace, purpose, and connection that had defined her life were suddenly gone. She found herself facing an unexpected question: Who am I without my work?AFTDJ is an all-volunteer, interfaith organization. Our remarkably talented volunteers are committed and compassionate, supported by funding from our equally compassionate and generous donors. What begins as an act of service or a straightforward donation is transformed into something deeper: a spir... Read More>
