Cross-Cultural Connection

We believe cross-cultural connection is extremely important in building a better MetroWest for all. See below for many wonderful opportunities:

For Individuals:

  • Become a volunteer ESL teacher or one-on-one tutor

  • Help us host a party for one of our ESL classes

  • Host one of our ESL classes at your business for a field trip

  • Serve on our board

For Parishes and Organizations:

  • Become a partner parish, sharing your resources to help build a better MetroWest

  • Set up an ESL class at your parish, with consulting provided

  • Partner with us for an immigration advocacy workshop

  • Request a speaker for your outreach meeting, adult forum, or Sunday service

ESOL students and volunteer teachers on a field trip to a pharmacy to learn English words for different medicines and health problems.

ESOL students and volunteer teachers on a field trip to a pharmacy to learn English words for different medicines and health problems.

English Plus (ESL for adults)

English Plus students at our Marlborough location work on activities about wellness and anatomy during class. Photo by Elizabeth Kholer.

English Plus students at our Marlborough location work on activities about wellness and anatomy during class. Photo by Elizabeth Kholer.

We offer classes for different levels of language proficiency, all focusing on the skills needed in everyday life: meeting new people, medical issues, money, driving, and much more. Our highly affordable classes are taught by volunteers who are native English speakers. We use an award-winning, dynamic curriculum called Intercambio. Students are given a short test during the registration process to ensure that they are placed in the class that is right for them.

Our affordable ESL classes go beyond learning English - we focus on cross-cultural social interaction that strengthens communities. We achieve this goal through field trips and parties that bring native and non-native English speakers together. 

 

Becoming a teacher in MA program

Help us increase the number of bilingual teachers in Massachusetts.

Do you have an academic background in education in Brazil and want to become a teacher here in the United States? We have created a course especially for you. Come learn with us in an innovative way and in Portuguese how to become a teacher here in MA. We will guide you step-by-step and you show what the path looks like for you to achieve your dream. Topics we will cover in the program: How becoming a teacher in Brazil compares with becoming a teacher in MA, types of licenses, Massachusetts state exams (MTEL), tips for prep courses, tips from private and public universities for continuing education, and interviews with professionals in the field of education. Sign up for our next session.

Orientation to American Culture Workshop

Brazilian newcomer to the United States?

This workshop was designed for you. Come learn in a practical way essential tips on living here in the United States. In a free, short workshop taught in Portuguese you will learn useful information about various topics on daily life here in our second home. Topics addressed in this workshop include the country’s educational system, tips on housing, being a good neighbor, communication, employment, finance, and even laws and the role of the police. Don’t miss out. Sign up right now for our next session.

Art encounters

If you are an art lover? Do you want to connect with works of art, artists, and art institutions, and expand your worldview and your life experiences? This is the ideal program for you. Our 6 sessions course addresses rich themes of reflection and learning about art. Themes such as aesthetic appreciation, historical context and art making in the history of world art are addressed. The course includes the participation of American artists sharing their experiences and their artwork. If you belong to this artistic universe, be sure to sign up for our next session.

From Medieval Art to the Rococo, from Neoclassical Art to the 20 th century.

Allow yourself to immerse in this historic adventure...

For more information on our programs fill in the form below.

This program is on hiatus for the 2019-2022 school year. Contact us for more information.

Português Plus (for children)

Português Plus is a Portuguese language and Brazilian heritage program for children ages 5-14. Our goal is to support the proliferation of language and culture in families. At a glance:

Students learn about currency in Brazil and Portuguese words for money.

Students learn about currency in Brazil and Portuguese words for money.

  • Classes meet from 10am-12pm on Saturdays, with locations in both Framingham and Marlborough, MA

  • Our program follows the academic calendar, running from September to June

  • Portuguese classes focusing on Brazilian culture and geography, with art, music, crafts, folklore, and drama

  • Curriculum developed in consultation with experts from the University of Massachusetts

  • All teachers are professionals who hold college degrees from Brazil and are trained in First Aid, CPR, and the prevention of child abuse

  • Parent participation and involvement

  • $55 per month, with discounted rates for families with multiple children enrolled and scholarships for those who qualify for free or reduced lunch

 

 

Immigrant Rights and Advocacy

We have partnered with agencies such as MetroWest Legal Services, Jewish Family Services and Consulate General of Brazil in Boston to bring clinics on the following topics:

  • Know Your Rights for Immigrants

Contact or sign up for our newsletter to learn more.