Thursday, July 8, 2010

Guest Blog Post: Elaine Zimmer, tutor at MLC Learning Center - Northeast

Thanks to Elaine Zimmer, tutor at MLC Learning Center - Northeast, for sharing her wisdom in today's guest blog post!

When I retired 11 years ago, I knew that I wanted to tutor as a volunteer.  I’m a teacher at heart, love social interaction and have always enjoyed learning and sharing knowledge. After my MLC training, I chose to work at the Sumner Library location in North Minneapolis where I got hooked.  I have been at Trinity in Northeast Minneapolis for about five years.

I think teaching English as a volunteer with MLC has staying power for me.  What makes me stay? The students have chosen to come and are motivated to learn, even though most have very hectic and difficult schedules. They leave with a smile on their face. I try to make learning fun. I’m also a thespian at heart. I make myself available to students before class, during the break, and after class if they have questions, which many do.  I have helped a couple of them with love letters, so I know they feel connected to me. I remind myself often that my contact with the student needs to give them a caring and positive feeling.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

'English Only' City Ordinance


A recent article about the proposed "English-only" ordinance in Lino Lakes by Ruben Rosario: 'English-only' proponent might try comprehending facts only


How would this ordinance impact immigrant/refugee communities living in Lino Lakes and the surrounding areas?