The comprehensive nature of our Glades Family Education program, in which the Literacy Coalition provides services for both parents and children, engaging multiple generations in learning together, is fundamental to the success of the program and the achievements of the program participants. Marith most certainly agrees. As the oldest of five siblings, she moved to Belle Glade from Mexico at 18-years-old. She had only finished elementary education and began working in the fields planting cabbage. In 2012, her mother enrolled at Glades Family Education with Marith’s youngest sister, who was 4-years-old at the time, recognizing that she needed to get her daughter into a quality preschool program while being able to improve her own English language skills.
Fast forward and Marith and her husband were looking for a preschool for their older son, Aaron, who was 3-years-old. Marith’s mother convinced her that it was the perfect opportunity for her to finally get an education. Having seen her mother’s English improve and seeing the success of her younger sister, Marith was excited to enroll with Aaron in Glades Family Education. She knew as soon as her younger son, Abraham, turned 3, she wanted him to attend with her, too. It was not long before her sister, Teresa, attended with her son, Benjamin.
The whole family is thriving. Aaron graduated from Glades Family Education in 2022 and has excelled in elementary school. He has received Honor Roll each trimester, as well as other academic recognition. He is excited for his younger brother, Abraham, to follow in his footsteps. Abraham graduated from Glades Family Education in May and is proud to show his kindergarten readiness skills.
Although both of her children have graduated from the program, Marith will continue to attend her English classes. After starting the program in the most foundational level class, she has moved up two class levels. Her goal is to be a paraprofessional at an elementary school. With her dedication and the support from our Glades teachers, Marith will continue to succeed.
