Free English classes for Spanish speakers in Albert Lea
Major Elsie Cline has spent the better part of two decades as a Salvation Army leader traveling the world and working in Spanish speaking countries. She served more than 10 years in Mexico City, another three in Costa Rica and three more between Spain and Portugal. It’s experience and training that’s come in very handy now that she’s the lead administrator for The Salvation Army in Albert Lea.
“I’ve spent a lot of time in big cities, but I’ve always wanted to wind up in a small town and be able to teach English,” said Cline.
Now her prayers have been answered.
Albert Lea has a population of a little more than 18,000 and a growing population of Spanish speakers. According to the United States Census Bureau, one out of every 10 people in Albert Lea is of Hispanic descent. The growing trend is thanks to job opportunities in the area, and that means a greater need for English teachers.
Every Wednesday and Thursday, the Army meets that need by turning the dining hall into a classroom and Cline into an English instructor. Tables, normally used for meals, double as desks filled with students eager to learn. While those who attend are at different speaking and reading levels, Cline is perfectly prepared for that.
“We have a couple of different books that are full of lessons,” explained Cline. “Everybody is welcome and there’s no need to sign up beforehand, simply show up and learn.”
Cline started a similar program several years ago in Columbia, Mo. and Jefferson City, Mo. The program started small, but eventually grew to include dozens of people who attended classes and learned English. She hopes to do the same in Albert Lea and already has a leg up since the Army’s offices are located near a Spanish speaking neighborhood.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to be able to use all of my years of experience in Spanish speaking countries and teach others,” said Cline. “In a sense things have come full circle for me. When I moved to Mexico I didn’t know any Spanish at all and had to learn as I went.”
Cline said she’s now able to give back – taking the language she learned and using it so others can now benefit.
The entry door to the Albert Lea Salvation Army’s worship center welcomes people in both Spanish and English. A place where all are welcome and where the goal is to have people who walk through the doors, read and understand what is written in both languages.