The English Language Support Course (ELSC), facilitated under the International Military Student Division at the Command and General Staff College, has long been a beacon for international military families arriving at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Separate from the English as a Second Language (ESL) course offered by the Army Community Service (which also needs volunteers, see page B1), the ELSC stands out for its community-driven, volunteer-led approach to teaching English.
Jeanne Boetig, a dedicated volunteer who has been instrumental in the ELSC's success, shared her journey and the impact of her work.
A lifelong commitment to language and volunteering
"My husband, Chris, and I grew up in New York City, where we had a strong foundation in various languages," Boetig began. "In college, I majored in English, Latin and classical literature, and our first military assignment was in Germany. Our language skills really helped us acclimate."
Settling in Leavenworth in 1992, they quickly became involved in community activities.
"We signed up to be Fort Leavenworth sponsors (for an international military student’s family), and this year, we received a Department of the Army Meritorious Public Service Award for 30 years of sponsorship," she shared.
Boetig’s journey with the ELSC began in 1999 when she was asked to teach the Advanced Conversation Class.
"I was in the right place at the right time and had built up a good reputation for my work with international spouses," she said.
By 2004, she had taken on the role of program director.
Inspired by family and community
"Volunteering was a natural choice for me," she explained. "My parents were always active volunteers in our parish and community organizations. My first experience came in high school through the National Honor Society."
Despite not having a teaching degree initially, she was confident in her strong foundation in grammar, literature and languages.
"I wanted to expand my contact with international spouses and make a difference in their lives," she said.
Making a lasting impact
Throughout her involvement with the ELSC, Boetig has expanded academic English instruction to better suit adult learners.
"I encourage instructors to supplement the curriculum with content that emphasizes oral communication, role-playing and multicultural awareness," she said.
Her contributions have not gone unnoticed.
"At our Recognition Ceremony many years ago, one of the international CGSC students said, 'Your English program was the best thing that happened to my wife this year,'" she recalled. Another memorable moment was when an officer at an annual event said, "Your name is well known in my country."
Encouraging others to volunteer
"Volunteering benefits both the receiver and the giver," Boetig emphasized. "There are countless opportunities available in our community. Whether you’re donating your time, talent or treasure, you’re making a difference in someone’s life."
She concluded with a favorite quote from Saint Mother Teresa: "Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love."
A call to action
With all of the ELSC teaching positions currently filled, the organization is always looking for additional volunteers.
"If someone is interested in adding their name to the substitute teachers’ list, they may still contact me," she said.
Boetig added that not everyone needs to be in the classroom to make a difference. She said lack of available hourly childcare is one of the issues that can prevent international spouses who would like to participate in the ELSC from attending.
“Some solve their problem by sharing babysitting: one spouse attends Tuesday while the other cares for the children, and then they switch on Thursday. Not ideal, but at least they each can attend class once a week,” Boetig said. “Last year, several spouses were able to attend classes while their children played together at an American neighbor’s house. I was overwhelmed by this woman’s empathy, kindness and generosity. I do not know if money changed hands, but the women and children became friends for life.”
ELSC classes meet twice each week at Kansas City Kansas Community College's local campus, the Pioneer Center on Spruce Street in Leavenworth, from 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. This helps accommodate ELSC students who have young children who need to be picked up from pre-kindergarten and kindergarten at 11 a.m. The ELSC academic year starts around Labor Day and follows the same holiday schedule as CGSC and Unified School District 207, including closures for parent-teacher conferences, and the course concludes in the second week of May.
The ELSC's story is a testament to the power of community and the lasting impact of dedicated volunteers. For those interested in making a difference, the ELSC can offer a unique and rewarding opportunity.
For more information on volunteering with the ELSC, contact Boetig at jmboetig@gmail.com or 913-240-5301.
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