Instructor Spotlight: Sitara Maruf|Islamic Center of Maryland

March 1, 2021

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what has inspired you to be a teacher?

Originally from India, I have been living in the United States for 30 years. I have a master’s in science and a master’s in journalism. I have been a college instructor and a journalist, and I’m an author of an English grammar book. Apart from teaching ESOL part-time, I am a science writer.


Credit for my interest in ESOL teaching goes to my relatives. Back home, many relatives were taking ESOL classes, and on my visit in 2010, they expressed some of their doubts.  I ended up teaching them English grammar every day, and, when it was time for me to leave, they asked when I would return to teach them again! They were overjoyed when I told them I could continue teaching from US too. We installed computers and Internet for them in specific homes, and nearby relatives would gather for the class. I taught them via Skype and Go to Meeting. So, they and other college students inspired and encouraged me to continue teaching.


What are the biggest challenges you face as an ESOL teacher?

Each ESOL learner has a different learning experience, background, and cultural heritage. Some have experience in academic and work environment, and others have never stepped in one! The challenge is to ensure that my instructions and explanations resonate with all. Since adults are conscious learners, it’s important to pick cues and give lot of encouragement.


What has teaching remotely during a global pandemic taught you?

I have been teaching remotely since 2010; however, teaching during the pandemic has brought in many online resources, that were lacking previously, or perhaps I was not aware of. During the pandemic, I started teaching ESOL at the Islamic Center of Maryland and gained valuable insights and input from them. Now that human interactions are fewer in the pandemic, I appreciate the interactions and gratification that come from teaching even more! It has given me and my students a wonderful sense of community besides a tremendous learning experience in a supportive environment.


What advice would you give to a new ESOL teacher or volunteer?

To teach well, teachers must have the passion to teach and also be passionate about the subject they are teaching. Teachers’ knowledge and interest in the subject as well as their energy, enthusiasm, and passion in teaching shows through and inspires and motivates students. Besides getting extensive knowledge of the subject, prepare well for classes, expect the unexpected questions and issues, and enforce discipline and consistency.


What have been your favorite pastimes during COVID-19?

I like reading, writing, and watching documentaries. During COVID-19, we discovered many hiking trails, parks, farms, botanical gardens, and country clubs nearby. As a family, we enjoy nature walks.


What do you find most rewarding about your work?

Every class is a treat for me when I see the students’ happy faces, their enthusiasm, gratitude, and how they look up to me. In the short-term, seeing increments in their knowledge and confidence makes me very happy. Over the years, I have felt my effort has been worth it, when they share news about better job and education opportunities or independently completing tasks that require higher-order skills.  One mutual benefit in teaching English to adults is that we can have productive, interesting, and fun conversations on many topics, which broadens our horizons.


What is something you learned about your students during this remote teaching period?

Each student is accomplished in a way and contributes positively to local communities.  They also help one another and have their Zoom sessions to practice English or discuss homework.  The English classes have given them another avenue to expand their social and learning network. Despite their work and family obligations and the difficulties that the pandemic has added, they are a happy, chirpy, thankful, and dedicated bunch who finds great pleasure in learning and in the small things of daily life.

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