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Helps Local Families Prosper
R ecognized as a White House Bright Spot in Hispanic Education by President Barack Obama, the Learning Community Center of South Omaha (LCC) (a partnership with the Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy Counties) helps immigrant families learn English and other essential life skills – so they can fully participate in the opportunities presented in the schools, at work and in the community. Just ask the Ortega family. Erika Ortega attends English classes on Tuesdays and Fridays and parenting classes on Wednesdays at the LCC. Two of her daughters, ages 4 and 5, are in the Violin Sprouts, a music program with the Omaha Conservatory of Music. “I feel like this program is really good; not just for me, but for my daughters; because it’s the best time in their lives to learn,” she said. Her improved English skills earned her a promotion at work and she no longer relies on her husband to interpret for her at doctor’s appointments. “I can now make an appointment by myself in English. I don’t understand everything, but I want to learn,” she said. Parenting classes have taught her how to effectively use praise to parent her children and what to do when they don’t follow the rules. She also began teaching her daughters routines for homework and other daily chores. By establishing a daily routine, she’s helped her once forgetful older daughter to remember her homework. “I’ve learned so many good things for my daughters,” Ortega said. She’s learned to be more effective in the time she spends with each of her children, giving each of them the attention they need. She can read books to her daughters and help them with their homework – two things she couldn’t do before starting classes at the LCC. “She’s a great mom and the whole family is amazing,” Anne O’Hara, LCC director, said.
Erika is grateful for all she’s learned at the LCC and hopes to continue with additional learning opportunities after finishing the program.
“For me and my family, it’s a new opportunity,” she said.
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