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VIDEO: ESL Should Not Be a Barrier to a College Education

BY July 10, 2015
America has the lowest college completion rate among developed countries, but for immigrant students the challenges of graduating are even higher with linguistic and cultural barriers. The inclination to believe they cannot succeed is all too common. Thirty-one years ago, an English teacher in a public school stood up and insisted that students believe in themselves. She began dreaming for them, with them, when it was hard for them to be visible. We know how damaging low expectations can be for young people. It's why programs such as the Scholarship Association for ESL Students are necessary to convey the message that no one should be denied a college education if they wish to pursue one, regardless of their background, legal status or origin. SAESL believes in the potential of these students who, in turn, grow to believe in themselves.  
Alma V. Marquez, Founder of Del Sol Group, has over 25 years of experience in education reform, communication strategy and community organizing.
Charles Cole III
Charles Cole III is an educator and media producer focused on the advancement of all youth of color, but more specifically Black males. The passion comes from his own experiences growing up without proper support. His life’s goal is to better the communities he grew up in through his work. He has served as a social worker, a director for Teach For America, the vice chair of the ...
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