English and American Culture Classes:

Our English and American culture class has successfully empowered Afghan women residing in the

United States to improve their language skills and integrate better and more effectively into American

society. With more than 40 Afghan students from diverse locations in the US–Virginia , California,

Kansas, Atlanta, Chicago, and various cities across Washington State, including Des moines, Kent,

Seattle, and Spanaway—our program has made a meaningful impact on their lives. Through week-to-

week guideline instruction and a supportive online via Zoom classroom, we have fostered a community of

learning and Afghan American cultural awareness.

Our program's mission is to empower Afghan women who do not speak English by teaching them the language and introducing them to American culture. Our goal is to equip women with the skills needed to navigate their new environment confidently, including effective communication, safe driving, and engaging with their children's teachers and doctors. We also help students overcome language barriers, enabling them to shop and communicate with everyone in English. The class is conducted in English with translations provided in Dari and Pashto. In 2024, the class met once a week on Saturdays for two hours. Based on students' requests, the next-level class starting in January 2025 will include two sessions: a two-hour session on Saturdays and a one-hour session on Thursdays.

Program Overview:

English Language Class: Focuses on basic to intermediate English skills, including speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary, and listening. • American Cultural Awareness: Highlights social norms, holidays, and commonly used expressions, comparing American culture with Dari and Pashto traditions. Geographical Representation: Washington State: The majority of students are local from Washington State.

Other States: Participants joined remotely from Virginia, California, Kansas, Atlanta, and Chicago.

Class Location: Zoom/Online Class Structure:

Weekly for two hours

10 min break after the first 45 min lecture.

Interactive lessons, group discussions, and individual one-on-one conversation.

Goals for Next Year

As we look ahead, we aim to:

• Expand the program to include more participants from additional states.

• Introduce advanced-level English or English Level 2 and American culture Level 2.

Dr. Kamelia Sarwary, D. Eng

Director of Education

December 31, 2024