Since the start of Cornerstones’ American Citizenship Class three years ago, 70 students from 17 different countries have passed their citizenship exams.
The following are some course highlights:
- Students have come from countries such as: Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Ethiopia, Egypt, Pakistan, Peru, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone, Iran, and Iraq.
- Many students now have better jobs and are giving back to the community by volunteering in local schools.
- The class has evolved into much more than an American Citizenship class. Students improve their reading, writing, communication, and English skills. In addition, they improve their self-sufficiency, self-esteem, self-worth, and self-respect. Using humor, role-plays, respect and understanding, the students become family.
- Students are asked to help teach the classes, boosting their self-esteem and knowledge of English. They ask each other citizenship exam questions, grade each other’s reading and writing skills, help each other speak, read and improve their written English.
- In addition to preparing for the Civics part of the test, students learn deep breathing exercises, body language, and how to talk with the examiner.
- In 2011, 13 students visited Congress and met with some of Jim Moran’s staff. Congressman Moran’s legislative director and his deputy gave an outstanding presentation on what Congressman Moran’s duties are, and how he serves them and the local community. The students were given a private tour of Congress. Students’ wore their national dress. How proud and amazed they were to experience first-hand the freedom we have in this great country, and sometimes take for granted.
English