This content was published: March 4, 2011. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
PCC to offer classes at New Columbia for Latinos
Photos and story by James Hill
Portland Community College plans to give young Latinos a better chance to achieve their educational goals through specialized classes at the New Columbia housing development.
At New Columbia (4605 N. Trenton), PCC will offer classes through the Multicultural Academic Program for Latino students between the ages of 16 to 20 who are English language learners. The classes will give them a chance to improve their English proficiency while working towards other educational and career goals. Students will study math, social studies and science in Spanish and can earn their GED in Spanish. At the same time, they will study English to improve their proficiency in the language.
The Multicultural Academic Program, which is operated through the PCC Prep Alternative Programs, is a partnership with local school districts, making it free to eligible students. Classes start spring term on March 28. The New Columbia classes will not only prepare the youths for college, but will give eligible students a 12-credit tuition waiver to start college at PCC.
PCC Prep first piloted this model at the Willow Creek Center in Washington County.
“This model works because it really serves the need that students have to complete a high school credential in their first language while building their English skills,” said Jeff Laff, manager of the program. “We want to extend these same opportunities to Latino youth living in North Portland.”
To learn more about how to enroll, contact Jana Daugherty with PCC Prep at (971) 722-6213.
About James Hill
James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »