Juan first enrolled in the Quintana Center’s ESL Spring 2020 session. Prior to COVID, he struggled to make it to class due to work obligations and would fall behind. Because of this he had to work harder to keep up with the rest of the class and the expectations. Nonetheless, he showed a real commitment to learning. When the pandemic hit, the Quintana Center began offering classes over Zoom. Suddenly able to attend classes remotely, Juan made a commitment to not miss a single class in spite of his work obligations. He would often have to come in and out of class, but he dedicated the time every single Saturday, and took in what he could. Surprisingly, since going to only remote learning, his participation and ability to keep with the content increased dramatically. It was a great change, and while his teacher was concerned with his ability to pay attention and engage safely, she was impressed with his commitment and progress. Juan completed the Spring session and has enrolled for the fall session as a remote student. For more of Juan’s story, visit our website. Ana moved from the Dominican Republic to Lawrence, MA in 2018 with her husband and three children. She first registered with the Quintana Center’s ESL program during the spring of 2019 and earned the coveted role of graduation speaker. Ana has continued on with ESL classes throughout this current fiscal year and attributes her improved communication skills to her time at the Quintana Center and her teacher, Ms. Rose Ray Goris. Ana is continuing to work on her English language skills and is working towards a career in industrial engineering. She and her husband also hope to buy a home and make their new life in the United States more permanent. For more of Anna’s story, visit our website. LAWRENCE PROSPERA FY’2019–2020 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 11
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