Fisherman’s Mark recently celebrated the graduation of its inaugural English as a Second Language (ESL) program.
The ceremony at Town Hall in Lambertville marked the culmination of two rigorous sessions designed to empower adult learners with essential language skills.
Fisherman’s Mark, a nonprofit known for its food pantry, early childhood learning academy and comprehensive case management services, identified a need for adult English classes during focus groups with the Hispanic community in 2022.
“Offering adult English classes became a priority after learning directly from the community about their needs,” said Fisherman’s Mark trustee Doug Shaw, who played a pivotal role in the program’s development. “We wanted to ensure that the classes were accessible and effective.”
Fisherman’s Mark partnered with Hunterdon County’s Educational Services Commission (ESC) and launched last summer. Classes met twice a week from September through May at Lambertville Public School and at the nonprofit’s Wilson Street office.
“Based on the testing at the end of the program, the ESC reported significant improvement by all 20 students who completed the nine-month course,” Shaw noted. “We were particularly pleased with the low attrition rate, which was below the countywide average of 10%.”
The 2024-2025 year begins with orientations and assessments in July and August.
“The students not only face food insecurity but also understand the vital role of education in transforming their lives,” said Ricardo Zapata, director of operations.
Teachers Will Ferry and Zoe Castro Abrica presented certificates to their respective students at the May 22 commencement.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve this wonderful group of adult learners,” said Castro Abrica.
“It has been a genuine privilege to work with such a dedicated, determined, kind and enthusiastic group in my adult English class in Lambertville,” added Ferry. “Each week, my students arrived with a positive attitude and a strong desire to learn. I couldn’t be prouder of their work ethic, effort, and the remarkable progress they’ve made throughout the school year.”
Anderlin Gonzalez, one of Castro Abrica’s students, said what he’s learned has helped him communicate more effectively with his boss and coworkers.
“(W)e have learned many words, sentences and phrases that have helped us in our daily lives,” Gonzalez said.
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