Encouraging Family Literacy

Dolores - bottom right

For Dolores, a retired kindergarten teacher with three decades of experience under her belt, education and family have always been at the forefront of her passion. Her career as an advocate for families and children has been nothing short of remarkable, and her belief that it's never too early to start reading and engaging children with books has left an indelible mark on her journey. Dolores knows that preparing children for school and fostering a deep love for reading starts at home, with parents as the first teachers.

It's this belief in the power of family and literacy that led Dolores to Skyline Literacy in 2019. Skyline Literacy, based in Virginia, provided the ideal platform to introduce a family literacy program, given the crucial importance of reading and interaction between parents and children. Many parents in the program are bilingual, and Skyline’s selection of simple books allows even those with limited vocabulary to read with their kids, bridging language gaps while fostering a love for reading.

Dolores's own love for reading, nurtured by her mother reading to her, expanded her world, imagination, and knowledge. Recognizing the transformative potential of this experience, she wanted to share it with other families. Her mission at Skyline became clear: help families discover the joy of reading together, just as her family had.

In Dolores's family literacy classes, the magic unfolds when families keep returning, cherishing the experience and the growth they witness in their children. There's something incredibly gratifying for Dolores when parents read alongside their children, engaging in the storytelling process, and fostering a deep bond through the written word.

During her classes, Dolores and her colleague, Bly, serve as models for reading techniques, from tracking print to discussing the story's illustrations. The children enjoy the books, and Dolores appreciates witnessing this interaction. After reading the stories, they often draw pictures or engage in related crafts, making the learning experience multi-dimensional and engaging.

Some of the memorable moments in Dolores's classes include a "Pete the Cat and the Perfect Pizza Party" session, where they had their own pizza party, or drawing a map after reading "Bear About Town." They even ventured into cooking experiences, like the jelly-making project tied to "Froggie Learns to Swim," with Skyline providing the ingredients to families in their own homes.

Dolores navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic by embracing technology. The transition to Zoom classes went smoothly, and the accessibility it offered led to excellent attendance. Skyline supported the transition with Zoom training and provided all the necessary books and craft materials, ensuring that the learning continued despite the circumstances.

For Dolores, the true success of her classes is reflected in the shared moments at the end of each session, where families practice speaking English and bond over their newfound love for reading. The ultimate testament to her impact is when families sign up for a second session, demonstrating their genuine enthusiasm for the program.

"I just don't want to leave," one child expressed during a Zoom class, encapsulating the profound impact of Dolores's work.

Dolores's journey at Skyline Literacy has been a testament to the power of community, family, and literacy. She attributes much of her success to Skyline’s unwavering support, particularly from Virginia and Nelly, who ensured that families had the materials they needed, even during the challenging times of COVID.

In Dolores's own words, "Skyline was great, I really thought we made a good team together."

Her dedication to fostering a love for reading in families has not only helped children embark on their literacy journeys but has also strengthened bonds within the community. Dolores's story reminds us that the love of learning and reading can transform lives, and Skyline Literacy continues to provide programs for families and individuals seeking learning.

Empowering Families through Literacy

Salwa Angalo came to Harrisonburg from Sudan with her family. She learned about Skyline Literacy in 2021 when she went to the Comcast Building to pay her bill and discovered that Skyline Literacy was in the same building. She saw flyers advertising Skyline’s English classes and decided to enroll in the program.

After attending English classes, Salwa was told about Skyline’s Family Literacy Program. She and her two children joined hoping that would bring her family closer and empower their language skills together. The program offered a blend of online and in-person experiences, accommodating the needs of diverse families like Salwa's.

For Salwa and her family, the program was not just educational; it was transformative. It helped them understand and speak English more confidently, strengthening their bonds and enabling them to communicate effectively with their new community.

Before discovering Skyline, Salwa faced challenges in reading and writing, barriers that limited her opportunities. However, the books and teachers ignited her passion for learning.

Salwa's journey continued to evolve. Building upon her newfound English skills, she now had her sights set on something even greater. She enrolled in citizenship classes, taking another step toward her dreams and aspirations in her adopted homeland.

Salwa's story is a testament to the transformative power of education and community support. Through Skyline, she not only learned to read and write but also found a sense of belonging and empowerment. Her journey from a chance encounter with a flyer to pursuing citizenship exemplifies the impact that dedicated organizations like Skyline Literacy can have on individuals and families, helping them to thrive and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways.

Unlocking the Power of Giving Back: The Joy of Volunteering

Kaystyle Madden worked with Skyline Literacy as a tutor and later as a workforce partner in our community. Adult Education is a passion of hers, and she was inspired by the work the organization does: “Becoming a member of the board is another way for me to advocate for adult learners.” Kaystyle joined the Skyline Literacy Board of Directors in January 2022. Her journey didn't stop there—she became the co-secretary in June 2022, and has just begun her term as Vice President."

Kaystyle began tutoring with Skyline Literacy in 2012. At the time, she was in a challenging job search after being laid off. Feeling discouraged, she turned to a friend in the HR industry for advice. Their suggestion was simple but profound: try volunteering to help you figure out your next steps. She had always wanted to tutor but never felt like she had the time. So, she started researching GED tutors and discovered Skyline Literacy. She signed up for the next Volunteer Tutor Training.

Kaystyle enjoyed tutoring so much that she requested a meeting with then Executive Director Elizabeth Girvan and Programs Manager Nelly Moreno-Shenk to learn more about Adult Education. It was becoming clear that she had found her new career path. Kaystyle returned to school and obtained a Master of Education in Adult & Higher Education. She shares, “Joining the Board of Directors brings everything full circle for me."

One of Kaystyle’s earliest tutoring experiences encapsulates the incredible impact of education and literacy. Her first learner's goal was to read a children's book to her 3-year-old daughter. Witnessing the confidence she gained from finishing that first book was incredibly encouraging. It's moments like these that remind us how reading can empower individuals."

"What I enjoy most about being a member of the Skyline Literacy Board of Directors is the opportunity to attend Skyline Literacy events and connect with volunteers and learners. Additionally, I value the collaborative spirit among our board members. We have a great team, and our collective efforts drive the organization forward."

In her opinion, the Board of Directors plays a vital role in furthering Skyline Literacy's mission and vision: “We are like the guiding light for the organization, here to help maintain the course. However, it's the dedicated staff and volunteers who are the true heart and soul of the organization.”

Kaystyle believes success with Skyline Literacy is witnessing adult learners in our community become empowered through education and literacy. It's about seeing individuals grow and gain the confidence to pursue their dreams and aspirations."

Kaystyle is very proud to be a part of this organization. She looks forward to bringing more awareness to all the great programs available at Skyline. The impact we have on individuals and families is profound, and she is honored to be part of a community that values education and empowerment.

The journey from volunteer to Board Member at Skyline Literacy embodies the organization's core values of lifelong learning, empowerment, and community support. It is an inspiring story of how one person's passion can ignite change and impact countless lives through the power of education and literacy.

Skyline Literacy welcomes more volunteers to join this noble cause, where every effort counts in building a brighter, more literate future for all. Whether you're looking to volunteer as an administrative assistant, tutor, or teacher, or if you're interested in serving as a board member, your skills and passion can make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve. Join us in our mission to foster a more literate and inclusive community.

A Family's Path to Literacy

Soraya Noorzaie and her family came to Harrisonburg from Afghanistan. She and daughter joined Skyline Literacy’s Family Literacy Program, a program designed to enhance literacy skills and foster a deeper bond between parents and their children. Each class was a unique blend of learning, bonding, and exploration. They discovered the joy of reading, the power of words, and the beauty of communication.

Soraya's motivation was fueled by her desire to improve her family’s English skills. She was an English teacher in her home country and was eager to navigate her way through the educational system and daily life. She was determined to understand the nuances of the culture she had chosen as her new home.

Soraya appreciated her teachers' warmth and patience as they guided her children through the English language. During those in-person sessions, Soraya and her daughter sat side by side, turning pages, sounding out words, and sharing stories. Their connection grew stronger with every book they read together, reinforcing the importance of family literacy in their lives.

Her daughter was not only reading with confidence but also engaging in meaningful conversations. When asked about her experience, Soraya beamed with gratitude, saying, "I liked it. Thanks so much. I appreciate it." Her words resonated with the genuine appreciation she felt for the program that had emphasized families reading together. Soraya now works at a Montessori school in Harrisonburg.

As Soraya continued her journey, she left behind a heartfelt recommendation for others: "Yes, I would recommend it." Her story stands as a testament to the transformative power of literacy and the profound impact of programs like Skyline's Family Literacy Program on individuals and families, empowering them to create a brighter future together.

Nuturing Literacy

Bly - top right

Bly Brown chose to join Skyline Literacy as a Family Literacy Program Tutor around seven years ago. Her decision was rooted in a lifelong belief that families who share books and embrace literacy together are not only more successful in their communities but also lead more fulfilling lives. She yearned to facilitate this belief and make it a reality for families in her community, and Skyline Literacy welcomed her with open arms.

As an educator throughout her professional life, Bly knew the power of learning within a family unit. She was inspired by the idea that when parents and children share literacy experiences at home, they create powerful learning environments that can shape the course of their lives.

Over the years, Bly had the privilege of witnessing the transformative impact of family literacy programs on the families she worked with. She and her dedicated partner, Dolores, embodied the notion that it's not just okay to read and have fun activities with children; it's crucial. Parents who once held reservations about engaging in literacy activities with their children gradually shed their inhibitions. They discovered the joy of playing with literacy, creating bonds with their children that were stronger than ever before. It was a win-win situation for both parents and their eager learners.

Bly and Dolores carefully selected picture books with themes they wanted to introduce to the families. These books were paired with hands-on creative activities, from drawing and making snacks to crafting friendship bracelets. Bly remembered fondly the time when she and Dolores ran a program for PBS called Ready To Learn, where the same principles of empowering parents as their children's first teachers were applied.

In the midst of the pandemic, technology became a bridge to continue their mission. Bly and Dolores utilized Zoom, allowing families to engage in sessions from the comfort of their homes. It was a platform that facilitated the practice of reading and activities, ensuring that families could replicate the techniques introduced during their sessions.

To Bly, success in the program looked like families valuing daily reading and incorporating language into their daily lives. It meant parents practicing English with simple books that became a part of their home libraries. Their progress and dedication were a testament to the vision of Skyline Literacy: to empower individuals and families through literacy.

With unwavering dedication, Bly contributed to Skyline Literacy's mission and vision by fostering a love for learning within families, nurturing the bonds between parents and children, and creating a brighter future for her community, one page at a time. Her story serves as an inspiration, illustrating the profound impact of family literacy programs and the difference one passionate educator can make in the lives of many.

A Journey of Empowerment: Asmarch

Asmarch Mengistu started with Skyline Literacy in May 2023 to take English and Digital Literacy classes. Originally from Ethiopia, Asmarch had been living in Harrisonburg for 11 years, dedicating her time to being a full-time mom to her family.

Asmarch first heard about Skyline Literacy through a friend, who shared glowing testimonials about the program's impact. Intrigued by the possibilities, Asmarch decided to join the classes. Her dedication and commitment to self-improvement were evident from the very beginning.

During her time at Skyline Literacy, Asmarch engaged in digital literacy and English classes. These courses not only expanded her horizons but also equipped her with essential skills for today's digital world.

For Asmarch, the motivation to learn English and study digital literacy is driven by a strong desire to support her children's education and growth. Through the English classes, she aims to communicate better with teachers, engage more effectively with services, and actively participate in her children's school journey in the coming years. The digital literacy classes, on the other hand, were instrumental in enhancing her computer skills. This newfound proficiency empowers her to assist her children with computer-related schoolwork and confidently navigate online platforms.

Among the aspects of her journey that brought her immense joy, Asmarch particularly enjoyed the computer classes. Jossi was not only knowledgeable but also kind and helpful, making the learning experience enjoyable. Skyline Literacy not only met but exceeded her expectations, providing a nurturing environment that encouraged her to thrive.

Asmarch's educational goals were clear when she first joined the program: she wanted to enhance her English skills and gain the digital literacy necessary to support her child's education. Skyline Literacy played a pivotal role in helping her fulfill these aspirations. The classes were tailored to her needs, ensuring that she gained the skills she sought while also offering a space for personal growth.

With her newfound skills and confidence, Asmarch looks forward to continuing her learning journey with Skyline Literacy. She is excited to enroll in more English classes, eager to further refine her language skills and continue her upward trajectory.

When asked if she would recommend Skyline Literacy's classes to friends or family, Asmarch's answer is a resounding yes. Her success story serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative impact of the program, demonstrating how dedication, support, and a commitment to growth can empower individuals to achieve their dreams.

Empowerment in the Digital Age: Staff Spotlight with Jossimar Diaz-Castro

“I’ve been drawn to literacy since I was a kid, honestly.”

That’s what Jossimar Diaz-Castro tells me when I ask why he decided to work for an organization like Skyline Literacy. Growing up as a student in the Mexico City public school system, Diaz-Castro developed a love for language arts, writing, and reading in his youth. It took him a while, though, to become formally confident about making literacy a career.

When he relocated to Harrisonburg just under two years ago, he was preparing to pursue formal education as a field of work. While making this dream happen, he researched places in the community he could use his skills, and Skyline made the top of his list.

“Skyline really serves as a reference point in town for inclusivity and opportunity” he explains “and because of that, I knew I wanted to be a part of what they were doing.”

His interest in Skyline soon turned into a full-fledged career for Diaz-Castro.

He soon took over one of Skyline’s newest initiatives, the Digital Literacy Program, as the lead instructor. The digital literacy program covers everything from computer basics such as hardware handling, to more complex lessons such as navigating the internet, email, file storage, organization, and handling of personal information online.

Diaz-Castro’s dedication and confidence in the importance of the subject matter is evident. Digital literacy, he says, is so much more than being able to operate a phone or a computer.

“Organizational skills are so important within the world of digital literacy… Clarity about these skills and the opportunities digital literacy can bring in our time leads to empowerment. It opens up career and growth opportunities, and it brings a sense of confidence and independence for students that is vital.”

He adds that even being someone who is already digitally literate, he has learned things from the modules and curriculum, and that he has been continually impressed by the commitment his students show in pursuing this education.

“Providing this experience of formal education for our students has been one of the most rewarding parts of my job thus far” Diaz-Castro says, explaining that even the process of tracking progress and sticking to a syllabus is a crucial experience.

When asked what he wants others to know about digital literacy and Skyline as a whole, Diaz-Castro focuses on one of the key values of Skyline: empowerment.

“I want people to know that becoming a student of digital literacy can truly bring a sense of achievement. It is a crucial field in society today. But even more importantly, I think it brings a sense of dignity– knowing that there is a place for you in this digital world and that you are capable of gaining those skills.”

A Lifetime of Learning: Kishwar

Kishwar Rashid is a proud lifelong learner. In 1976, Kishwar’s son came to the U.S. to pursue higher education, and when he graduated and found a job in New York, she joined him in the states. After getting settled in New York, Kishwar began working towards becoming an American citizen. Though she was trying to prepare for the process on her own, Kishwar began seeking out additional ways to get ready for the citizenship test and interview process. It wasn’t long before someone introduced her to Skyline Literacy.

Though Kishwar lived in New York, she was still able to take advantage of Skyline’s resources through virtual options, which presented a whole new set of skills to learn. “When I first started, I didn’t know how to work zoom, or how to set up a zoom account. Without the help of Jyar Abdulla (Skyline’s program manager), I could not have been here today, talking about this program.”

In addition to helping her get set up with technology, Kishwar says that Skyline staff and teachers made the citizenship preparation courses themselves fun, welcoming, and educational.

“I felt really good during the first class. The teachers are helpful and supportive, and they explain things two or three times to help you understand. I knew that if I asked questions, they would respond, and if I needed something, they would help.”

Kishwar encourages those pursuing citizenship to look into Skyline as an option. And reminds them that if she, at the age of 74 years, could succeed and learn in these classes, that they can, too.

“I would definitely advise them to join Skyline Literacy classes because I benefited so much from them” she says, adding that the organized structure of the class has allowed her to learn a lot about the citizenship process and feel more prepared for her interview. When asked what excites her most about becoming a citizen, Kishwar says that she is ecstatic to be a part of the democratic system of America.

“I think this is a very democratic country with so many opportunities. There is so much freedom of speech, religion, press, you know… few countries can offer that. And I’m excited to be a part of this country as a citizen."

FY 2022 Citizenship and Integration Grant Program

Citizenship Instruction and Naturalization Application Services (CINAS)

Harrisonburg/Rockingham Community: 

Skyline Literacy, (SL) a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a Citizenship and Integration Grant for $161,455 from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This grant period is October 1st, 2022 to September 30, 2024. 

Skyline will prepare local Lawful Permanent Residents to pass the U.S. citizenship test and interview in their journey to naturalization. Skyline’s grant partner, Church World Services of Harrisonburg, (CWS) will manage the application process. 

SL will provide citizenship classes for 60 LPRs in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County for each year of the two-year project. Instruction will include classes, review sessions, mock interviews and needs-based tutoring. CWS will provide naturalization application services through its DOJ-accredited staff to a minimum of 60 LPRs each year during the two-year grant project. These services will include naturalization consultation, eligibility screening, and N-400 and G-28 preparation and submission. Eligibility screening (120 screenings) and consultation will be provided at no cost to the LPR. Total funds allocated to each agency for the two-year period are as follows: SL for citizenship instruction $96,880 and CWS for naturalization application services $64,575; for a total of $161,455 for the two-year grant period. 

Skyline Literacy would also like to thank the community for its continuing support, as donors and volunteers, which has made it possible for Skyline Literacy to help over 150 residents of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County each year to learn to read, write and speak English, as well as to become U.S. citizens.  

Thanks to the community for supporting Skyline’s continuing efforts to fulfill its mission: “to provide instruction, based on need, in various literacies, for adults in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County using trained, qualified instructors and volunteers.” As a community-based literacy organization for 35 years, Skyline Literacy serves over 300 individuals annually.

A Legacy of Literacy: The Senger Family

Senger Roofing LLC is one of the many community businesses that has been sponsoring Skyline Literacy for years.

However, for father-son owners Harvey and Mark Senger, the choice to support Skyline is deeply personal.

Growing up, Harvey Senger and his sisters were very close in age. In order to keep the siblings from being in the same classes, Mr. Senger was passed along, from one grade to the next. Eventually, he graduated high school and enlisted in the Navy. Throughout the years of his schooling, however, something had slipped through the cracks: Mr. Senger had never learned to read.

According to ProPublica, stories like Mr. Senger’s are more common than one might think. One-fifth of American adults struggle to read, and with limited resources and programs in many states across the country, this “silent crisis” continues to impact lives throughout the nation.

“For a while, I was able to make do.” Mr. Senger recounts. “After I left the Navy, I started a job at another company. My boss would hand me paperwork and ask me what I thought of it. I’d ask him if I could look it over in my office, and then I’d go in and try to make sense of what was on the page. I could read word-by-word, and sound it out like one of those kids books… See. Jane. Run.”

Mr. Senger continued to achieve success, all while struggling with his inability to read. He went on to own at least two businesses, and continued to gain expertise in business and construction. However, when asked what prompted him to begin taking literacy courses as an adult, Mr. Senger does not cite his job or business endeavors. Rather, it was his son Mark, and their nightly bedtime stories, that sparked his determination.

“When Mark was a kid, we’d always lay in bed together at night and read his Bible Storybook. He’d read the page that was on his side, and I’d read the page that was on my side. By the time Mark was in third or fourth grade, I realized that he was reading better than I was.” Mr. Senger remembers. “Shortly after that, I saw an advertisement for a literacy class offered through JMU at Harrisonburg Baptist Church. I decided it was time for me to take the opportunity and learn how to read.”

And learn, he did. 

His teacher was Donna Alexandre Lawyer. Despite all the years, he still remembers her name, and her requirement that he “do his homework first” during the first hour of the class before moving onto reading the personal literature he’d brought to practice with. For Mr. Senger, his literature of choice was the Bible. 

“It was exciting for me to learn to read the Bible on my own, and to be able to read it for a little bit at the end of every class. Now, I get to read it every Sunday when I volunteer with Kingsway Prison Ministry… that’s really special.”

Now, years later, Harvey’s son Mark has made it a priority to invest in literacy in Harrisonburg through Senger Roofing’s support of Skyline Literacy. 

“I think it’s important to Mark, to support organizations like Skyline, because he saw what learning to read did for me.” Mr. Senger says, adding “It doesn't matter what you do in life, even if it’s math, you have to be able to read. Reading to me is involved in everything that you do. If you can learn to read, you can have a sense of self-sufficiency.”

When asked if he has any advice for adults who are embarking on the journey of literacy, Mr. Senger says: 

“The worst part, for me, of not knowing how to read was the shame of other folks finding out… but now, looking back, I know that they already knew. My boss, other people, they all knew. And I guess I want people to know that it is not embarrassing. And it does not mean you are stupid or unintelligent,” he continues, “Reading is a skill, just like anything else. It’s an important skill, but there’s no need to be ashamed. I encourage people to make the decision to learn, and don’t let fear keep you from doing it.”