Basic Adult Education

Yaritza Polanco studies during class.


Below is an article I wrote on Basic Adult Education classes for the cultural center newsletter.

“I have suffered a lot not being able to read or write,” says Raymunda Jarquin with frustration in her gentle voice. “People trick me and I feel embarrassed. They tell me I am too old to learn and make fun of me for trying.”

As a girl Raymunda never had the opportunity to go to school because her mother preferred that she stay home and help out on the farm instead of sending her to class. Now, at age 66, she is learning how to read and write in level I (1st & 2nd grade) Basic Adult Education classes at the Center.

Raymunda is one of 65 students who signed up for Basic Adult Education classes at the Center this year. There are three classes taught by three instructors that cover grades one through six. All classes are offered free of charge and are held Monday through Friday from 5:30-8:30 in the evening from February through October. Ages range from 15 to 66 and while most participants are women who work hard long hours as domestic employees, there are a few men and youth as well.

While classes bring numerous benefits, there are many barriers that keep students from continuing. Mildred Castillo, who teaches level III, says that many students are single mothers who have to work, manage their homes and care for their children, which can make getting to class a struggle, especially if they work late and live far from the Center.

Most students hope to gain reading and writing skills that will empower them to cope with everyday life and set an example for their children. They also trust that education will help them to find a more rewarding and dignified job.

“I get bored working as a domestic employee and I want a job where I can have security and earn a better income,” says Yaritza Polanco, 23, who works for and lives with a family of five in Managua. She grew up in a rural town 6 hours from Managua and dropped out of school as a teenager. Although she misses her family, she is grateful to have the opportunity to study and will complete level III and receive her primary certificate this year. In the future she hopes to study a career in cosmetology or computer technology.

On top of receiving an education, students also gain new friendships. Although Raymunda was once embarrassed to take classes at her age, she now looks forward to class and its welcoming environment. “We all encourage one another,” she says. With a proud smile she exclaims that she has learned all the letters of the alphabet and can read a few words after just two months of class. “My hope is to be able to read the Bible one day,” she says.