DPS English-language program for parents is back with a goal to reach 5,000 participants

Last year, we wrote about a new radio series sponsored by Denver Public Schools to teach English to Spanish-speakers. More than 3,000 tuned in and 220 completed the course. Now it's returning for another year...

By Melanie Asmar

September 16, 2011

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Last year, we wrote about a new radio series sponsored by Denver Public Schools to teach English to Spanish-speakers. More than 3,000 tuned in and 220 completed the course. Now it's returning for another year.

Called Maestro en Casa (Teacher at Home), the program aims to teach practical language skills for scenarios such as making a doctor's appointment or registering a child for school. Starting October 12, the lessons will air on MARIA 1090 FM three times a week: Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:30 to 10 a.m. and again from 10 to 10:30 a.m. The lessons are free -- and are also available online.

To sign up, participants must fill out a simple form and receive a set of workbooks that compliment the radio lessons. For more information, visit the website of the DPS Multicultural Outreach Office.

DPS estimates 40 percent of its nearly 80,000 students speak Spanish, as do many of their parents and guardians. This year, DPS hopes to reach 5,000 through Maestro en Casa.

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Melanie Asmar is a staff writer for Westword. She joined the paper in 2009 and has won awards for her stories about education, immigration and epic legal battles. Got a tip? She'd love to hear it.

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