Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Two students at Warsaw's Alternative Learning Center who are working toward their GEDs became U.S. citizens on Sept. 13 at a ceremony in Goshen.
Andrea Shepherd and Cirilo Lopez, both natives of Mexico, said they wanted to become citizens "so our kids would be proud of us."
They also said they wanted to "be part of the country that has given us such wonderful opportunities."
Shepherd has two children, Andrew and Ashley, and Lopez and his wife Elena have two children, Robert and Norma.
Shepherd and Lopez are pursuing their educations at the Alternative Learning Center, where each has a one-to-one tutor to help them improve their reading, writing and speaking skills in English as a second language.
As a part of his studies recently, Lopez wrote an essay titled "Turning Point: Coming to America," in which he said: "I started to school (ALC) to learn English. It has helped me get a better job, and to learn new experiences. ... I want my children to get an education and to help this country. ... I'm very grateful to this country for the chance to improve my life. I appreciate America for giving me a turning point. I am glad I took the opportunity."
Carolyn Fleck, Shepherd's tutor, and Grace Abbott, Lopez's tutor, were present for the naturalization ceremonies, which were held at Goshen Middle School.
Recruiting and training one-to-one tutors is a cooperative task of the Alternative Learning Center and Kosciusko Literacy Volunteers of America. Anyone interested in volunteering for this community service is invited to call 269-3721.
