Engage in Cross-Cultural Dialogue: Become an ESL Class Assistant

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Do you believe in interculturalism and cross-cultural dialogue? Are you someone who would enjoy a nontraditional classroom that is not only lively, but entails lots of movement, repetition and even some call-and-response? Assistants will demonstrate enthusiasm and engagement, follow the facilitator’s lead, and model language skills for English language learners. For more information about this approach to language learning, see People Places Things .

Please note, class openings are only offered at Rockwood Library.

Time Commitment

2-4 hours per week for 3-6 months

Locations & Class Times

Rockwood Library, 17917 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97233

Here is a list of the openings:

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays: 12:00 - 1:30 pm

Mondays and Tuesdays: 6:00 - 7:30 pm

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Attend orientation and training

• Assist the lead class facilitator to help participants with class activities and exercises

• Notify supervisor of scheduling changes

• Provide feedback for program evaluation and planning

• Follow instructions from the lead facilitator of the class

• Arrive 15 minutes early for each class

Special Skills and Qualifications

• Sensitivity to differences in culture

• Skill at deciphering what people are trying to express

• Patience, creativity and willingness to encourage participation in class activities

• Openness to working with people of diverse backgrounds and culture

• Good sense of humor

• Maturity and confidence

• Ability to read, speak and write English at an intermediate level

• Willingness to have a criminal record check

• Be at least 15 years old

Training and Other Requirements

Class observation

Meeting and overview of class structure with Adult Literacy Coordinator

Site orientation and review of volunteer program policies and procedures

Criminal record check if over 18 years of age; reference check if under 18