Yemenite Refugees Receive English Training

SUNY Rockland Provides English Training to Yemenite Refugees

Suffern, NY - Yemenite political refugees who recently settled in Monsey are learning English through Rockland Community College’s Center for Personal & Professional Development (CPPD).

Following the recent rise of violent acts of anti-Semitism in the Arab nation of Yemen, the U.S. State Department determined that the Yemenite Jewish community was in danger, and granted them Tier One refugee status. As such, they can receive visas and receive services from resettlement agencies.

The refugees began their 132 hours of English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction on January 25 at a synagogue in Monsey. Their classes, which will end on May 14, are being taught by David Kalter, ESL Coordinator, CPPD, and RCC adjunct faculty.

Most of the Yemenites in the class arrived in Monsey last summer. Kalter said, "It's a big adjustment for them culturally, but they are very grateful to be here." Although his students speak primarily Arabic, a few speak Yiddish, which Kalter understands. "One student told me that a rabbi in his community was murdered, and another said that his younger brother was murdered." Impressed by their progress learning English, Kalter said they will be able to enter the workforce soon. "They will become productive members of the community."

For more information, contact Richard. Syrek, Dean, Center for Personal & Professional Development, at 845-574-4465, rsyrek@sunyrockland.edu or visit: www.sunyrockland.edu/go/cppd

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Rockland Community College, a unit of the State University of New York, is located 25 miles northwest of NYC. The majority of its students transfer to four-year colleges, and many find immediate employment upon earning their associate's degree or certificate. The College also offers others, from preschoolers to senior citizens, the opportunity to simply learn something new. Quality education...at a price you can afford.