Academic Programs
• Literacy (Orientation A and B): These courses offer instruction to those students who do not read
or write in their own languages and who, prior to taking higher-level courses, need intensive instruction
by teachers trained in the complexities of language acquisition. For example, often times students
need to know the basics more advanced learners might take for granted: learning the English alphabet;
understanding instructional methods used in US classrooms; developing phonological skills; and
learning about the production of sounds, words, and sentences.
• ESL Classes (Levels 1 through 8): These classes offer non-native English speakers instruction in
life skills, listening and speaking skills, reading and writing skills, and grammar skills. They also offer
students an opportunity to apply what they have learned by incorporating into the syllabi a variety of
field trips as well as activities that enhance their understanding and vision of their communities and of
the global environment. The integration of English language and life skills instruction (including use of
idiomatic expressions and discussions about similarities as well as about differences between US and
other cultures) provides students with the skills needed to gain employment; advocate for personal and
family needs; and become more confident, involved members of society.
• Family Literacy: The Carlos Rosario Family Literacy Program provides classes to immigrant parents
eager to improve their parenting and life skills through standards-based English language instruction.
Classes are held at various DC public school sites for those who are from diverse backgrounds
and who have varying levels of English language fluency. Built into the theme-based curriculum are
opportunities for parents to work with their children on language-rich activities in the classroom and at
home, to participate in free book distributions for children, to receive instruction in the Carlos Rosario
computer labs, to explore their communities through field trips, and to receive assistance from the
Supportive Services Department. The program is specifically designed to help parents of students at
each of the selected sites learn about their children’s schools and about the US educational system,
become more effective advocates for themselves and for their children, participate in school activities
and interact with teachers and staff, acquire skills and resources to support academic success in the
home, and become more active in their communities.
• GED Test Preparation: In today’s workforce, a high school diploma remains the primary ticket to
many entry-level jobs and a prerequisite for advancement in employment, occupational training, and
post-secondary education. Carlos Rosario therefore offers GED test preparation classes in Spanish and
English, which help students successfully pass the GED exam. The course teaches the academic skills
and knowledge acquired in a four-year high school program as well as foundational skills necessary
for success at the high school level. Academic content areas taught are language arts (writing and
reading), social studies, science, and mathematics.
• Citizenship Preparation: This class ensures that students eligible to become naturalized United States
citizens will be able to pass the naturalization interview test with confidence. The class instructs students
in US history, government, the Constitution, the democratic process, and the rights and responsibilities of
citizens. According to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) established by Congress, students eligible
to become US citizens must have at least five years of continuous residence in the United States as
permanent residents as well as the ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
• Individual and Small-Group Tutoring: This program provides tutoring for students with special
or unique needs and is supplemental to classroom instruction. Based on the recommendations of
their teachers, students are invited to meet with tutors as needed during class time to learn through
individualized lessons and activities skills that enable them to excel in their classes.
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