Focus On:
Helping Non-English Speaking Community Members

In recent years, an overwhelming increase in minority populations has swept across the state, specifically in eastern Wisconsin. According to the 2000 U.S. Census data, Dodge County’s Latino population has catapulted 140 percent since 1990, while populations similarly soared in Fond du Lac, Green Lake and Washington counties by 112, 105 and 128 percent, respectively. But the Latinos are not the sole minority group to grow in size; so has the region’s Hmong population, which boasts a growth of 177 percent.

To help non-English speaking individuals succeed in the Wisconsin workforce, Moraine Park offers the English Language Learners (ELL) Program and the Diversity Resource Center.

“It is imperative to acknowledge the shift in the make-up of our communities,” said Sandra Huenink, dean of adult basic and developmental education at Moraine Park. “Our newest community members know that improving their language skills is a requirement for improved employment.”

That’s why Moraine Park students value the ELL program and Diversity Resource Center, located on the Fond du Lac campus. “Students representing diverse cultural backgrounds and orientations are an asset,” said Huenink. “By giving them the opportunity to increase speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, we also give them the opportunity to participate more fully in our communities.”

English Language Learning Program

Moraine Park offers the ELL program to students whose first language is not English. These students can enroll in free classes to improve their speaking, listening, reading, grammar and writing skills. Huenink explains that “ELL courses help students acclimate to their community, become workplace ready, transition into college programs and study to become U.S. citizens.” This year Moraine Park has changed the format of its instruction and is able to offer classes based on individual skill level.

“Our goal is to help with real-life situations as well,” said Huenink. Moraine Park has received a grant which allows instructors to take students into the community. ELL students gain first-hand experience instead of being restricted to classrooms.

“Through field trips and instruction modules, this program helps students become familiar with community and government resources and services,” explained Huenink.

Moraine Park’s ELL program works closely with businesses in the community that employ workers who are English language learners. Businesses may contract with Moraine Park to offer ELL classes at their worksites. “Courses can then be developed to offer specific training tailored to the job’s requirements, creating economic rewards for both the employees and the business,” said Huenink.

Moraine Park has an average of 400 students enrolled in the ELL program every year, a number that is expected to increase. Last year, over 13 countries were represented.

According to Huenink, the program is successful in many ways. “For the past several years, we have met all of the state target outcomes for ELL learners,” she said. “But beyond that, this program has changed lives through assisting learners to meet educational goals, and achieve economic advancement, strengthened families and increased connections within the community.

A Center in Support of Diversity

Similarly, Moraine Park’s Diversity Resource Center (DRC) at the Fond du Lac campus provides a comprehensive learning experience and support for students and community members. In many cases it helps students connect with their community, creating a better understanding.

Users can access the DRC’s library, video/audio tapes, magazines and reference materials. There are also several computers available with access to Microsoft Office, ELL software (Rosetta Stone and Language Learning) and the Internet.

“The goal of the center is to create a social environment that enhances diversity understanding and relationships,” said William Green, Moraine Park’s diversity relations associate.

The DRC staff offer personal advisement and referral services, assistance with the college admissions process, frequent presentations regarding diversity topics and information about minority scholarships and internship opportunities. “We conduct several activities and events to benefit both community members, students and staff,” said Green. “These range from a variety of presentations and workshops, Lunch-and-Learn discussions, Get-Acquainted sessions and cultural celebrations.”

Since its opening in 2004, the number of students using the DRC has steadily increased. According to Green, the center sees about 200 regular users a year including prospective and current students, community groups/agency representatives, faculty and staff.

One of these regular visitors is Lanya Barton, of Fond du Lac, Wis., a Moraine Park and DRC work-study student.

“As a work-study student, I take part in all DRC events. I help schedule appointments and meetings, assist with coordinating the lunches and sessions on all three campuses and numerous other tasks,” she said.

Barton’s opportunity to participate in the behind-the-scenes action at the DRC has given her an inside look at everything the DRC offers. “The center is a comfortable environment where everyone is welcome,” she said. “The staff go beyond the limits to make sure every question is answered. When the rest of the world seems confusing and hard to keep up with, the DRC truly becomes a second home.”

Helping Non-English Speaking
Community Members

Message from the President

Hello. I’m Dr. Gayle Hytrek, President of Moraine Park Technical College. Thank you for your interest in Moraine Park Technical College by reviewing our 2006-2007 Annual Report. The theme of this year’s report focuses on our changing communities and the impact of Moraine Park in meeting our communities’ needs.
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              - Gayle Hytrek, Ed. D.
                Moraine Park President