Elev8's Computer Course: Bridging the Digital Divide

By Alex Morales/The Resurrection Project

Since it began at Jose Clemente Orozco Community Academy last summer, the Elev8 program has proved that school can be the perfect place for families to learn new skills, improve their self-esteem, network with other families and improve communication with their children and teachers.

Carlos and Lucila Perez at their Orozco computer class. Photo: Alex Morales

Meet Carlos Perez and his wife Lucila, grandparents of 2 Orozco’s students, Pilsen residents and, now, savvy computers users. Their daughter’s involvement at the school led them to the educational opportunities available through Elev8. “We had computers at home for the last 15 years. Our children, now adults, saw the need as they were pursuing higher education. Now, our grandchildren use them, it feels like it is second nature to them so we felt that it is never too late to learn how to use them,” said Perez.

“Parents have taken advantage of the Elev8 programming and are showing up in great numbers to learn basic computer skills," said Maria Martinez, Elev8’s Computer Instructor. "They learn how to use word processing products, how to use email and the internet.” The computer courses consist of 20 hours of training and classes are offered every Saturday. “Parents have expressed how the classes have also helped them help their kids with their homework assignments,” said Martinez.

“Now, 3 weeks into our classes, we know the basics and most important do not feel intimidated by computers anymore. Mrs. Martinez is an excellent professor, making learning a fun, interactive process,” said Perez.

Originally from the Mexican State of Puebla, and with family still living there, Carlos and Lucila now can contact their family via email, share pictures, stories and remain in contact in a cost effective way. “Is a great feeling to be able to walk up to my daughter’s computer and pull La Reforma's website without any help.  I can already see the value of having access to so much information.”

Elev8's program at Orozco is continuously growing in popularity. Luis Bermudez, the Elev8 Manager, says the classes fill up quickly. "These numbers reflect the need and will of our community to progress,” he said.

Mrs. Martinez also teaches Arts and Crafts to a group of 35 mostly female homemakers. “The ladies here learn how to make their own clay, color it, mold it and with it sculpt beautiful dolls and flowers. They also work with fabrics; they made tiaras for last Christmas season and some scrap-booking too. They not only learn a craft but also a way to supplement their household income by selling their homemade goods.”

All Elev8 programming is free to the community. Anyone in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago who is interested in participating can contact Mrs. Teresa Fraga, the Parent and Home School Coordinator at Orozco at (312) 534-7215.