CLG a MCAEL Bridge

June 28, 2021

MCAEL is working with local organizations to create Community Learning Groups (CLGs), learning spaces that connect learners and community members to ESOL (sometimes for the first time) in their communities. An important part of MCAEL’s Racial Equity Strategic Plan, the CLG program focuses on two objectives: 1) helping more adults in East County and other areas with fewer English classes to find a pathway to improving their English skills, and 2) increasing the number and diversity of trained adult ESOL instructors.  

The 9-week CLG ESOL class model builds on existing social ties, working with key community leaders to introduce ESOL to learners through a trusted point of contact. Participants meet at a convenient place (or online) and time that best suits the group. At the end of the introductory class, each participant goes through a “case-management” process and are referred to existing community-based classes where they can continue their learning, based on their individual needs and circumstances. 

In the past 5 months, MCAEL has piloted two CLG classes, partnering with Identity, Inc. (10-week class, ran February – March) and Kings and Priests Court International Ministries – City of Light Helping Hands (9-week class, ran April – June). Lessons learned from these two pilots about the curriculum, pace and length of class are invaluable, and have been incorporated into plans for the next CLG classes to start in July. In post-class surveys, participants reported an increase in confidence using English, and the majority have enrolled in another class to continue their study.  

In May 2021, with the help of East County-based organizations, MCAEL recruited and selected individuals from local immigrant communities to train as CLG instructors. Topics in the custom 4-week (16-hour) training program offered in May/June included: adult learning theory and principles; learner-centered teaching techniques; and online learning/teaching. Six participants successfully completed the course and will teach CLG classes to take place this summer; MCAEL will provide them with information on further TESOL training and career advice. Congratulations to Abebech Tebeje, Abiodun Olatunji, Clara Ekeke, Jocelyn Matenje, Mariame Koita, and Soffie Ceesay!

The CLG’s are a bridge to the ESOL network in Montgomery County that help expand access for learners where programming is not readily available and training for community members to teach adult ESOL, especially those that are representative of their communities. These groups will break barriers to learning by warmly handing-off new learners to local organizations, while opening new opportunities for community involvement.

A picture of Gerard Etienne, MCAEL's new Executive Director. He wears a navy-blue suit.

A Letter from MCAEL's New Executive Director

By Emma Starr • May 21, 2025
Dear MCAEL Community, It is such an honor to be joining you as MCAEL’s new Executive Director. With my many years of mission-driven work rooted in Montgomery County – and as an English language learner myself – I could not be more thrilled to join this amazing staff and network of programs. I’ve known MCAEL for years through my work in the county, both at Interfaith Works and most recently as Chief Program & Innovation Officer at the Jewish Council for the Aging (JCA). But after just two weeks on the job at MCAEL, I’ve gained an even deeper understanding of the breadth of work that we do – and the impact that we have on the lives of so many. Not speaking English affects your life in almost every way, from asking for directions or help in a store to securing employment and an education. I speak from experience. I was a young teenager when my family moved to the United States. Not knowing how to speak the language, I had to navigate not only a new country, but eighth grade in an American middle school (arguably challenging even for native speakers). At a time when some of our learners are afraid to come to class, we need to stand tall and continue to do what we have always done – offer pathways to a better quality of life through English learning, and to support our strong network of programs in doing so. I am excited to take on this work and I look forward to meeting all of you through planned visits to programs, as well as at meetings and community events. I welcome your phone calls, emails, and visits! Please reach out at any time – I would love it. Warmly, Gerard

MCAEL’s First-Ever Learner Celebration

By Emma Starr • May 14, 2025
One hundred and sixty-five people came out for food, performances, resources, and inspiring stories at MCAEL’s first-ever Celebration of English Learners last month. Attendees may have hailed from across the globe, but they shared common experiences as immigrants and English language learners. At the event, they had access to organizations offering services ranging from healthcare to legal advice – and all enjoyed an abundance of international food, and a lively program featuring the personal stories of learners and dance performances by Grupo Folklorico Internacional and CCACC Evergreen Martial Arts Health Dance Class. Representatives from the offices of Councilmembers Jawando and Mink presented a special citation, signed by the Council Education Committee, to Sonia Peñate, long-time volunteer (and former learner) from the Seneca Creek Community Church ESOL program. Kanidiengue Kone, who moved to the US from the Ivory Coast three years ago and currently serves as a member of MCAEL’s Learner Leadership Group, had these words for the crowd: “Today, I want to encourage you: keep going with your classes, even when it feels hard. Growth happens when we step outside of our comfort zone.”
Image of Gerard Etienne, MCAEL's New Executive Director.

MCAEL Welcomes Gerard J. P. Etienne as New Executive Director

By MCAEL • April 16, 2025
MCAEL is delighted to announce the appointment of Gerard J. P. Etienne as its new Executive Director. Gerard brings a depth of experience overseeing and growing large programs, most recently as Chief Program & Innovation Officer at the Jewish Council for the Aging (JCA). He will assume his new position at MCAEL on May 5, 2025. Gerard began his career as a mechanical engineer and then a management consultant for both small and large companies, focusing on intrapreneurship and innovation. He discovered his passion for mission-driven work through years of volunteering – leading him to a position as Director of the Vocational Services Program (VSP) at Interfaith Works, where he worked directly with immigrant job seekers, including non-English speakers, to help them overcome cultural and employment barriers. “Gerard brings a deep personal connection to MCAEL’s mission and a strong commitment to serving vulnerable and marginalized communities in Montgomery County,” said Sean Klein, MCAEL Board Chair. “His record of equity-centered leadership, along with his experience managing multidisciplinary teams and complex programs, make him the ideal choice to lead MCAEL into its next chapter.”  "I am thrilled and honored to serve as MCAEL'S next Executive Director,” Gerard stated. “As a long-time Montgomery County resident and someone with lived experience as an English learner, MCAEL'S mission is deeply personal to me. It's a privilege to give back to my community and to help expand opportunities for adult learners across our county." Gerard’s family moved to the United States when he was a teenager, and he entered the American school system speaking no English. A Montgomery County resident for almost 40 years, Gerard and his wife raised two sons here. He and his wife are both avid fans of Arsenal Football Club (they never miss a game). They live in Silver Spring with their dog, Doug.