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Community Impact

Student Graduates Kick-off their Educational Journey

“Reach for the stars!”

That is the message twenty-four of El Buen’s youngest learners received at the Child Learning Center’s 2010 Prekindergarten Graduation Ceremony on Thursday, April 22. The students, who came to the end of their preliteracy curriculum at the Child Learning Center, were taught early-childhood learning objectives and mastery skills designed to empower them to successfully enter the public school system.

“Many of the students have attended the Child Learning Center since they were six months old,” said Mona Izquierdo, director of education. “We’ve seen them grow and learn every day. I can’t wait to see their educational progress in the years ahead.”

Through the reocurring message of the evening's theme, Reach for the Stars, the students and their parents were encouraged by El Buen’s executive director, Victor Azíos, to persevere in their education, making use of all the programs and services El Buen Samaritano has to offer.

“I know this isn’t the last time we’ll see them,” Mona said. “Once children graduate from the preliteracy curriculum of the Child Learning Center, they come back to El Buen for the Evening Tutoring Program, the Reading Buddies Literacy Camp, Outdoor Kids or the Family Health & Fitness Program.”

It is the holistic nature of El Buen’s programs and services that cultivates a nurturing family environment. “It’s heart-touching to see our youngest learners grow into successful students,” Mona said. “Their parents say they feel at home at El Buen Samaritano. And we welcome them as part of our family.”

The Child Learning Center provides clients throughout El Buen the opportunity to attend programs and services while their children are being cared for in a safe and academic-focused environment. Modeled after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Head Start Program, El Buen’s Child Learning Center focuses on early-childhood learning objectives and mastery skills, which are designed to prepare toddlers for preschool. Through a detailed curriculum which incorporates technology education and educational activities which focus on civic, community, culture and language skills, El Buen’s CLC empowers children to successfully enter the public school system. For information on how to support or get involved in this program, contact Mona Izquierdo.