Local Literacy Program Supported by Palisades Volunteers
One-On-One Learning was founded almost ten years ago in February 1997 by Sister Cecilia LaPietra O.P. of the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill. Sister Cecilia was part of an education committee at the convent. They noticed the growing community of Hispanic laborers in the hamlet and decided to use their educational skills to help solve the language difficulties prevalent among their new neighbors.
Together with Palisadian Judy Platt, Sister Cecilia put together an effective, no-cost English language teaching program that now serves between 100 and 200 students. Judy is an experienced teacher of ESL (English as a Second Language) and knew how to choose the right teaching materials and texts the One-On-One Learning program needed. Sister Cecilia approached St. John’s Church in Piermont and the program was given the use of Connolly Hall twice a week, on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 8-9:30 p.m.
Many volunteers have contributed their time to make all these aspects of the program work—including Palisadians Pat O’Prey, Judy Platt, Ralph Olsen, Joyce Gavin, Roger Hooker, and Elisabeth Moody. (More are always welcome—you don’t need to speak Spanish—just go there during a regular session and get involved.)
The focus is on teaching new immigrants literacy in English. The students are grouped by ability, ranging from beginners to those preparing to take the High-School GED equivalency test. There is also a children’s program, since many of the students bring their children with them to the sessions. The children receive help with their homework and reading readiness. At a separate location in Tappan supported by a benefactor, One-On-One Learning offers about 25 students computer classes on ten computers, also donated by the same benefactor.
Students are really dedicated and according to Judy Platt, never miss a night, even in terrible weather. She says that the atmosphere is wonderful—the room buzzes with energy as different learning-level groups sit around their tables, making it a very cheerful place. This spirit of optimism and sharing extends to the holiday season. Every participating family gets a holiday gift including wrapped toys and turkeys.
The future calls for increased growth. Sister Cecilia would like to find a new, larger space to combine all the programs under one roof, and expand the type of teaching offered. One-On-One Learning held a hugely successful fundraising dinner this past fall at the Nyack Seaport Restaurant that featured dancing and was attended by 90 teachers, supporters and volunteers and raised about $23,000. For more information, or to make a contribution to this effort, you can call Sister Cecilia at 359-4239.