Operation Bootstrap launched its pilot ESOL Distance Learning (DL) program in September 2007. We ran it for 10 weeks with 10 students. We selected both DOE-enrolled and non-DOE enrolled students. I have included my final report on that pilot phase in a separate posting named DL Final Report. You can click the English for All link to see the website that we are using for this course. You may remember that COMCAST has been broadcasting the videos from English for All on Channel 1 ON DEMAND. It was originally scheduled to run until March 31 and only in the North Shore area, but, due to its success, COMCAST has decided to broadcast it nationwide indefinitely.
Phase 2 of the pilot has started as of February 2008. I am following most of the recommendations found in the report, including stricter standards for participation, no fee charged, greater outreach to non-DOE enrolled students. I am aiming to recruit 10 students for this phase also. At present there are 5 slots still open. So, if you know any students, whether or not they are enrolled at OB, who have a computer at home with a fast internet connection, have a working knowledge of e-mail, and have at least intermediate English language skills, please refer them to me. Also, click on the Distance Learning link in the sidebar.

As part of phase 2, Dulany is working on putting together an ABE component. If any ABE teachers would like to recommend good programs they may know about, or work with Dulany to find one, please contact Dulany.

We are currently operating under a Verizon grant which is limited and which will be depleted soon. We are hoping to approach Verizon and COMCAST to see if they would be interested in providing any continuation funding. If you have any questions, feel free to see me or e-mail me.