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ESL MInistry

English as a Second Language

Through the on-going efforts and leadership of Bob Cinq-Mars, St. Michael's has an exemplary program for
ESL, done in concert with Gaston College. In keeping with my desire to spread the “good news” of our parish
life, here's Bob's report to me, the parish council, and you, the parish members:

What is it?

It is estimated that about 1/3 of the parishioners worshiping at St. Michael's church are Latino. A large portion
are first generation immigrants and do not speak English. Several years ago, Cam Tracy and Sylvia McGill
started English classes. There were no funds, books, electronic media, or testing materials. In a search for
materials to use in class, a partnership with Gaston College was formed to have St. Michael's Church be a site
where ESL (English as a Second Language) is offered in Gaston County. There are five other sites -two others at faith-based facilities.

The partnership provides books, testing materials, video materials for learning at a distance and other supplies. The program is staffed by three Gaston College paid instructors and four volunteer aides. All are parishioners.

The program operates two semesters a year and takes the summer off. The program is advertised at the Latino Mass at the beginning of the semester, by word of mouth and a slide on community cable TV. About 80% of the students are parishioners.

Program Learners --Who are they?

The students in the ESL program must be 18 years old or over. No children are allowed. Currently there is a
regular attendance of 10 to 14 students out of 18 on the rolls in the morning class. The evening class is
experiencing attendance of 25to 33 students out of 40 enrolled students. All non-English speakers can attend.
We have had classes in which eight (8) countries were represented.

Current Class Structure

Currently there are two or more levels in each class, each with an instructor. The level share Introductory and
Intermediate I as one group and Introductory II and Advanced I&II in the other groups. Some students have been at St. Michael's ESL for up to three years and they have progressed in their learning.
Classroom

Classes are held in the Parish Hall on Tuesday and Thursday. On these days, there are two classes - one in
the morning and another at night. All levels are taught at the same time in the same room by moving the tables
around into clusters. Class materials are stored in two vertical file cabinets and adjacent bookcases.