When Nancy came to the Literacy DuPage program she had some big goals and never imagined that after one year of being tutored, she would have so many accomplishments!

Michele, Nancy's tutor, is a speech pathologist in a local school district. She tutors because she sees first-hand the benefits when parents understand English language well enough to help their children with school work and to communicate with teachers.

Michele and Nancy meet for their tutoring sessions Saturday mornings in Nancy's home. The fun activities Michele brings for Nancy's children keeps them occupied, but also help them with their learning skills.

Like all parents, Nancy wanted to help her children in school. As a result of Michele's tutoring, Nancy can now read to her three young children in English. Michele helps Nancy understand the notes and packets the school sends home and helps her understand her young child's homework, such as rhyming words.

Another one of Nancy's main goals was to get a job. Her higher level of English improved her employability and she now has a full-time job - doubling the family household income. Currently, she is working on strenghtening her communication skills and is being considered for a promotion.

Nancy also wanted to be able to make medical appointments for her children. Nancy can now "tell the doctor what is wrong with my kids". But the accomplishments don't stop there. She is enjoying learning how to use the computer to search for information and even pay bills.

Michele says that Nancy is a very hard worker and motivated to learn. Michele believes that tutoring is rewarding when you can see the progress that a learner makes and Nancy has made huge progress. She started as a very beginning ESL student and just recently tested at the highest level!

Congratulations, Nancy on meeting your goals.