Teacher of English language learners uses grant to assist families

Annemarie Papa-Bassett, a teacher of English language learners, recently used a grant from Langley Federal Credit Union’s Langley for Families Foundation to assist families of English language learners in Hampton City Schools. The grant was used to pay the registration fee of $45 each for 11 parents to attend English as a Second Language (ESOL) classes through Peninsula READS.

“It is said that it takes a village to raise a child,” said Papa-Bassette. “With the help of this grant, we can support the whole child, their family, their education, their health and their future.”

Hampton City Schools serves over 300 English language learners, many with families that are not literate in English. Lower levels of English literacy affect not just the individual but the family as well. This is a challenge to parents as they may not be able to help their child with their homework or important communications from their child’s school. COVID-19 has made it even more difficult for these students and families.

Peninsula READS is an organization that offers ESOL programs to foreign-born adults to help them learn to read, write, and speak English fluently. Parents who attend the class English for Speakers of Other Languages offered by Peninsula READS, often help students bridge the educational achievement gap they face. The organization can also help families complete citizenship forms and other important documents. Unfortunately, the cost of the class is sometimes makes it unobtainable for families. With the grant, Papa-Bassett was able to help with that obstacle for some parents.

“We are very proud of Mrs. Papa-Bassett’s initiative to find creative ways to reach our students and their families,” said Andrew Lloyd, curriculum leader for world languages and English language learners. “She took the time to apply for a local grant that would directly benefit our families learning English which in turn supports our students and their education. This is truly an example of Every Child, Every Day, Whatever it Takes.”