Discover how literacy changes lives through the voices of students whose determination, courage, and hard work have opened doors to new opportunities for themselves and their families.
Why Learning Is Important to Me
When I started school, kindergarten was not available then. I often felt lonely and different because I struggled to learn while other children seemed to move ahead easily.
I felt ashamed because reading did not come naturally to me. As each school year became harder, I felt more isolated and withdrew into my own world.
I did not receive help until the tenth grade, but by then I had become too discouraged and dropped out of school. I was tired of being called names and made to feel less than others.
As an adult, I learned to hide the fact that I could not read. I cared for family members, worked in a restaurant, and found ways to manage daily responsibilities without letting others know my struggle.
Everything changed when my son started school and I realized I could not help him learn to read. I knew then that I needed support.
Years later, I found Burke Literacy Council. They connected me with a caring tutor who helped me learn to read and write. Today, I read better every day, I am no longer ashamed, and I can help my son.
Education changed my life.
— Written by a Burke Literacy Council Student
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Stories shared by Project Flower and Project Citizenship participants.
Rosalena
“My name is Rosalena. I came to this program to learn how to speak, write, and read English better. My dream is to earn my GED someday.
This class has helped me so much. I can now make appointments, read books to my children in English, and help them with homework.
I am especially grateful that I can bring my daughter with me. She is learning English too, and now we read books together. She loves coming to class.”
Manuel
Manuel came to the United States from Guatemala in the 1990s with limited English, little formal education, and few job skills—but with a strong work ethic and a dream for a better future.
He knew education was the key to reaching his goals. After connecting with Burke Literacy Council, Manuel was paired with an ESL tutor who encouraged him and helped him build the skills needed to earn his GED.
Receiving his GED became a turning point in his life. It opened doors to better employment and inspired him to continue learning.
Today, Manuel and his wife Maria, also a former student, own a home in Morganton and work for state agencies. He remains active in his church and continues pursuing his dream of attending college.
“I know what this program can do for people. I am an example of how education and learning English can help you get a better job and live a better life.”
Elidia
Elidia is a hardworking and caring woman from Guatemala who came to the United States seeking new opportunities.
She joined Project Flower several years ago and faithfully attended classes while bringing her young nephew Ricardo to participate in the childcare learning program.
Both Elidia and Ricardo have grown together through literacy, practicing English at home and building confidence side by side.
Because of ongoing medical needs, learning English has been especially important for Elidia. She shares that the program has helped her communicate more easily with healthcare professionals.
Her goal is to become fluent in English and help others learn as well. She is also known for warmly welcoming new students into the program.
Dominga
Dominga, originally from Guatemala, has built a life in Morganton with her husband and three children. She works hard in a factory but knows education can open even greater opportunities.
“Hi, my name is Dominga. I am married and have three children—two boys and a girl. I work in a factory. I like my job, but I do not want to work there all my life.
That is why I come to ESL class—to learn more English. I hope to earn my GED one day, and after that, I want to become a nurse. I believe it is possible.”
We believe it is possible too—and it is an honor to support students like Dominga as they pursue their dreams through literacy.