We sat down with Literacy KC student Tammy to learn more about why she came to our organization and the type of experience she has had while here. Here is what she had to say:
1. Why did you come to Literacy KC?
A few years ago, I decided I wanted to go back to school. I began at the Penn Valley GEARS program, where they told me I could use a little more help with my reading and spelling and referred me to Literacy KC.
2. What has your experience been like in your classes?
This is my first time being in a classroom setting, as I’ve always been in a one-on-one tutor pairing in the past. I was scared to go for the first time to a larger class. I really like it and it is teaching me more and more of what I need to know to be successful. My old one-on-one tutor, Anne, came with me to the classroom setting and helps tutor students in my class. I like it because it is different than one-on-one: I am learning different stuff each time I go and I get to meet a bunch of new people. I have learned spelling patterns, which helped me learn the vowel sounds to keep in my brain for when I read and spell. I learned how to break words down into syllables. Once I understood syllables, I learned how not to be afraid to read really big words and try to spell them. I learned how to identify prefixes and suffixes and comprehend what I am reading and spelling.
3. What has been your favorite part of the classes?
My favorite part has been learning a bunch of different things. Also, getting to know how other teachers and tutors teach has been helpful.
4. What has been the greatest challenge for you with the classes?
The greatest challenge for me has been understanding and comprehending what is being taught, but I am learning.
5. Why do you choose to stick with the program and keep coming back to each class?
I stick with it because I want to continue to grow. One day I want to be behind a desk as a counselor so that I can work to help other people when they need it. I don’t want to do the work I’m currently doing now for the rest of my life. I want to be able to keep my head held high, take care of my needs, and help others get out of their negative situations. Literacy KC is helping me toward this.
6. What are some of the goals that you have accomplished since you have been in class?
I have learned more about vowels and punctuation and I have wrote a paper. I am able to better comprehend what I read and I have been able to read my mail and help my daughter and granddaughter with schoolwork.
7. If you could describe Literacy KC in one word, what would that word be and why?
I have learned more about vowels and punctuation and I have wrote a paper
8. Is there anything you would like to add that you think people should know about Literacy KC?
People should know that they should not be ashamed to come. I know people who do not know how to read and write, but they are ashamed and don’t want to come get help. If you need help, Literacy KC can help you, but you need to take the initiative to come and get it. It is a good place to come to read and write. Do not be ashamed of where you came from. They will never talk down to you and you will be happy you came.