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MANOS

West Side Learning Center

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The Beginning:

Partners in Learning, Inc formed its Community Education Program in 1989 under the leadership of Theresa Pagano. The program first began to take shape in 1987 when Theresa, a Spanish teacher and mother in the community, visited the Latino Outreach Program of National Louis University in Chicago, IL and was impressed with the involvement of Latina women and children in language and literacy development.

Theresa then brought the program idea back to Syracuse and began to see the need for a similar program in the rapidly growing Latino community. She discovered that in 1988 less than ten Latino children were involved in early childhood education programs in her community. Theresa saw this as the perfect opportunity for Syracuse residents to engage in community education as a way to overcome language and cultural barriers. Partners in Learning, Inc, was established in 1989 and in collaboration with the Syracuse City School District, the first Community Education program, “MANOS” Family Literacy Program, was born.
“MANOS” was established to foster English–language learning and stimulate physical, emotion, and cogitative growth in children ages birth to five years old. Initially, the program started small with just 3 families, but has grown each year of its existence. The “MANOS” Child and Family program was formally held at Blodgett School and moved to its Seymour School location in 2005.

The Growth:
In 1990, “MANOS” grew to over 40 participants, and began its English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) instruction for parents and guardians. This was the first step in implementing an adult education aspect to the organization.

In 1992, the Community Education program expanded further with the establishment of the West Side Adult Learning Center. WSLC is designed to assist adult participants in achieving their full potential by focusing on language learning and the principles that are vital to be part of a new cultural community.

Today:
Partners in Learning, Inc.’s Community Education program has had over 500 participants and has again branched off to create a new program called “Families in Action” in 2002. The Purpose of the Families in Action program is to develop literacy skills as a family.

Partners in Learning, Inc is on an everlasting mission to assist individuals and families of diverse languages and cultures to establish themselves as integral members of our community. We look forward to continuous and prosperous growth.