Sonora’s aspiring teachers participate in English immersion experience
Angela Milton and Julio Andrade are two of the 14 young college students majoring in education who visited Cochise County, Arizona, for an English Immersion program. Milton appreciated learning and comparing the two distinct education programs, saying, “It was enlightening to understand how the U.S. education system operates at the elementary and middle school levels and to contrast that with our practices in Mexico.” Andrade echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the various teaching models they observed. “We are excited to be part of the program and appreciate receiving a certificate for participation.”
Five professors from Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, accompanied the group. This initiative, a collaborative effort between Cochise College and two esteemed Mexican institutions, Benemérita y Centenario Escuela Normal del Estado de Sonora and Escuela Normal de Educación Física, spanned one week and offered the participants an opportunity to explore and gain insight into what teaching entails in the U.S. education system.
“They visited six Douglas area elementary and middle schools and engaged in cultural experiences in Bisbee, Tombstone, and Sierra Vista,” said Abe Villarreal, Douglas Campus Dean, who organized and led the program. “The group also toured both Cochise College campuses and the Downtown Center and met with the City of Douglas Mayor and other leaders.”
The selection process for the English Immersion program was rigorous, underscoring the commitment among participants. “These students have demonstrated achievements in bilingual education, completing various tests and projects that showcase their dedication to teaching and cross-cultural communication,” said Adriana Isabel Altamirano Ruiz, a professor traveling with the group. The diverse levels of bilingual proficiency among the students did not deter their enthusiasm for learning.
Milton and Andrade shared their experiences with gratitude and enthusiasm, saying, “We learned so much! The teachers over here are amazing. We had a wonderful tour and gained invaluable insights into teaching in the U.S.”
The program also featured a presentation from two Cochise College education instructors, Jennifer Kennedy and Ellen Vujasinovic, who shared knowledge about teacher preparation programs and certification processes in the U.S.
Dean Villarreal and Ruiz hope to expand the program. The teacher shortage in the United States is a significant and growing concern. Initiatives like the English Immersion program may pave the way for future educators.
Photos from the English Immersion program can be found online: www.cochise.edu/english-immersion-program-photo-gallery-google-photos/
To learn more about the education program at Cochise College, visit www.cochise.edu/education.