Maria del Pilar Quintana Family Center (continued) On June 12, 2014, the Quintana Center celebrated its 18th Completion Ceremony at the Lawrence Family Development Charter School Gymnasium. Two hundred twenty-nine students graduated from ESL, Citizenship and Computer Skills classes. To celebrate this event, the Quintana Center invited as special guest speakers, Lawrence Family Development and Education Fund, Inc.’s, Executive Director, Mr. Ralph L. Carrero, Massachusetts State Representative, Mr. Frank Moran and two-term Lawrence School Member and Candidate for State Senate, Mr. Pavel Payano. Other guests were, Dr. Judith Marley, Director of New Initiatives and Special Projects and LFDCS Principal, Ms. Patricia Karl (retired June 2014). To show gratitude to students, Ms. Karl thanked students for donating to Mision Joven Dominica Project. Every year, Ms. Karl visits the Dominican Republic and with the donated dollars and school supplies she is able help the poorest towns and neighborhoods build new schools and small houses. As the Quintana Family Center looks to the next fiscal year, it has over 795 individuals waiting to enter classes. Level 1 ESL (English as a Second Language) classes in the evening reaches capacity and future candidates are placed back on the waiting list. Students in need of immediate placement are referred to other community agencies for more immediate services. 22
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