Have you ever wondered what makes the difference between
championship teams and those they beat? Certainly talent
and good luck play a part. However, often teams with less
talent beat more gifted teams for the big prizes. Also,
many times championship teams win despite adversity. Looking
back at the great Husker teams of the 90s sheds some light
on this issue. The one thing that stands out about those
national championship teams was their great chemistry and
unity. It is amazing how much you can accomplish when people
have a common focus and work together for an important
goal.
This was seen this week in Columbus. Thanks to people in
several organizations adult English instruction for our Hispanic
population took important steps forward. As a result, the
number of Hispanic adults that applied for English classes
at Platte Valley Literacy Association was so great there
is a waiting list. Normal registration is less than 20 students.
Fifty-three registered this time.
This happened for several reasons. First, the Columbus Public
Schools, Central Community College, ESU 7, the Chamber of
Commerce, Platte Valley Literacy Association, and Cargill
Meat Solutions combined forces to get the word out about
classes. This was done in a variety of ways including telephone
messages, brochures, and posters. Businesses also helped
spread the word by providing advertisements at their establishments.
This information was presented in both English and Spanish.
Then the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Columbus joined
forces to arrange for affordable transportation for those
wanting to attend classes.
Platte Valley Literacy Association and ESU 7 revised their
class delivery system to make it more effective. They identified
areas that needed improvement and responded with appropriate
alterations.
The great teamwork and dedication of many people made this
success possible. I would like to mention and thank several
key individuals:
Jolene Hake from PVLA
Deb Wragge from ESU 7
Melissa Prochaska from Carneco
Matt Gotschall from Central Community College
Mike Fleming and K.C. Belitz from the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce
Joe Mangiamelli from the City
Rudy Salazar, Raul Gascon, and Dee Condon from Columbus Public Schools
Do you want to be a part of a championship team? While great strides are being
made, more help is needed. Volunteers are needed to provide conversational language
practice and daycare. More funding is also needed to expand the number of classes
that can be offered. If you can help in these areas, give Dee Condon a call at
563-7000.
Perhaps the best part of this winning effort is seeing how our Hispanic community
is rushing to take advantage of the opportunity to learn English. It is obvious
they are serious about becoming an integral part of our city life. This will
pay huge dividends in community relationships and economic growth.
Again, many thanks to the successful community team whose resolve and cooperation
is making it possible for more Columbus adults to learn English. Their unified
effort is addressing an important city need. This illustrates what can be done
when people work together for the common good. This shows Columbus and Nebraska
at its best. It is what makes this a great place to live.
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