New ESL computer program a success

Joe Blanco believes in bridging gaps.

Gaps between languages, gaps between cultures, and gaps between means.

The McHenry County College student development adviser has been a driving force in creating the first computer literacy class for non-English speakers at MCC.

The effort, a partnership with the Woodstock-based nonprofit group Principled Minds, has by all counts been a success.

Blanco last year approached the college about the English as a Second Language program incorporating computer literacy into its curriculum.

"I was told the interest was there, but MCC hadn't had the resources to make any progress with the idea," he said.

After helping establish a partnership between the college and Principled Minds, funding finally was secured to offer a class.

Participants pay a $10 fee, which includes materials. Students who complete the course also have the opportunity to purchase a used Dell computer with keyboard, mouse and a monitor for $90.

"This semester's class was sort of a test run," said Blanco, who was curious to see how popular a computer literacy class would be among MCC's ESL students.

The first session, which had spots for 10 students, "filled up within the first hour it was available," he said.

"Dropping in on a class last week, the students that I encountered all seem to be very happy."

Blanco said another session will be offered in the spring.