ABOUT
Families of Learners
Part of Escuela Popular’s uniqueness lies in the fact that it serves “families” of learners. Parents and their children attend school and learn English together. And as a result, there is a strong home-school connection through which youth and adult students motivate each other to continue learning and embrace their experience as one that is positive.
Intensive Language Development
Escuela Popular’s ability to meet the student where she/he is academically—is another great benefit. Oftentimes, when high school students enroll at Escuela Popular they are far below basic – 6th grade or below – reading, writing, and math levels. Believing that all students can learn we use quarterly assessment to advance students at an accelerated pace. Small class sessions and intensive English Language Development also contribute to the advancement of these students academically.
Escuela Popular is dedicated to reversing the dominant educational trend that instruction must be slowed down in order to meet the needs of recent immigrants and English language learners. This slowing down and emphasis on remedial instruction widens the achievement gap while decreasing student engagement.
Empower to Succeed
Our teaching methods are inspired by Paulo Freire’s theory of “popular education.” As such, we serve students by identifying basic needs and building upon their strengths while providing instruction that is relevant to their lives. Every student’s participation and input is valued. Moreover, the relationship between students and teachers is mutually respectful rather than hierarchical. We encourage students to use their world view and experiences as a catalyst for changing their immediate situations. As a result of this heightened perspective that is based on personal experience, students’ raise their critical awareness and are empowered to succeed.
Making Dreams Come True
Escuela Popular, which started as a dream, is a powerful proven example that dreams can become a reality.