Teacher & Student Learning Through the Service of Others

AS SPRING HILL STUDENTS RETURN TO THEIR DORMS AND THE FINAL CLASSES OF THE DAY ARE DISMISSED, THE CAMPUS WELCOMES COMMUNITY MEMBERS WHO SEEK TO BETTER THEIR LIVES WITH A LIFE-CHANGING EDUCATION.

For 15 years, Spring Hill College has offered ESL (English as a Second Language) classes for adults seeking to learn or improve their English. However, the College has recently professional feedback.

The ESL program is staffed by students with a passion for education and who seek to reforms made within the program, "Before, ESL was only oriented towards serving our community's needs. But, we have begun transitioning the ESL program into more of a teaching laboratory and a job development program for the college students." focus on professional development has brought new life to the classrooms. Irizarry run class is a huge accomplishment. Our students-teachers are 19-20 years old teaching a group of adults, and that's really cool to watch."

Irizarry described the holistic approach of the program, which invites attendees into the Spring Hill family, quite literally. "We serve about 120 adult community members, but we also serve their children, because when they come for classes twice a week, we provide free childcare," she said. The families attend not only for an education, but also, a good time. Irizarry said, "It's a very multigenerational environment, and it's really fun and lively!"

Generous donations to the program have enabled students to now receive Teaching professionalized teaching core," said Irizarry.

Dr. Cynthia Torres, an English and Spanish professor on The Hill, works with students working with student-teachers, the families attending receive a better education and a lively experience.

Rachel Younce had a lifechanging experience as a Spring Hill student during an ISIP trip. Today, as a campus minister, she helps open doors for students through retreats, immersion and other justice projects.