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The Mélida Anaya Montes Spanish School is an exciting solidarity project based on the opportunity for cultural exchange between Salvadorans and internationals who are interested in political, social, and economic development in El Salvador and worldwide.  At the school, the student develops an understanding of Salvadoran culture and ideals through learning the Spanish language and through this process, the student can support the democratic process that has been initiated in El Salvador.  The school is part of and supports the organizing work of the Centro de Intercambio y Solidaridad (CIS).

Objectives

• Teach students to speak and understand Spanish within a political, social and cultural context.

• Broaden students' understanding of the Salvadoran culture and political situation.

• Encourage and involve students in solidarity activities through a variety of programs, and by educating people back in their own communities about the Salvadoran reality.

• Immerse students in Salvadoran culture.

Teachers and Students

The school is small and intimate, providing the opportunity for individual attention and a personal atmosphere.  Students come from many different countries, range in all ages, and are from a variety of cultural backgrounds and professions.  Teachers are Salvadorans trained in teaching Spanish as a second language.  They have a variety of experience levels, some with up to 8 years of teaching experience at CIS, and most are involved in the social movement, including the teachers' association.

Classes

Classes are available at all levels.  Students are grouped together at the same level with no more than 4 students in each class.  Classes are held for 4 hours a day, Monday through Friday from 8:00am to noon with a 30-minute recess. There is also the possibility to take private lessons and/or in the afternoon or evening for a higher price.

Our methodology is participatory and uses popular education techniques, placing an emphasis on conversation and grammar review.  Class discussion is an important part of the program; students can use the Spanish they have learned to talk about social and political themes such as the history of El Salvador, human rights, the environment, current events, and gender equality. Classes include instruction in common expressions and language of El Salvador.

Political Cultural Program

We recommend that you participate in the school's afternoon political-cultural program.  A variety of objectives are met through the program, including the expansion of your awareness of the political and economic reality of El Salvador, providing accompaniment, and reinforcing language learning.  Students participate in a variety of activities including meetings with progressive organizations, political parties, and communities, as well as visiting tourist attractions. The weekly schedule is determined by the students and the coordinator and based on students' interests and requests.  The full program of four afternoons a week is offered when there are three or more participating students.  When there are less, we can offer an alternative program.

Your Salvadoran Family

Homestay is an integral part of our Spanish program.  As part of the cultural exchange and to improve language skills, students are housed with Salvadoran families who are active in bringing about social change in the country.  From the time you wake up, you will be practicing your Spanish, learning about the political situation, experiencing Salvadoran culture, and developing friendships that can last for years.

Dates of Study

Classes begin every Monday all year round.  The minimum length of study is one week.  Below are the national holidays; the CIS is closed but Spanish study can still be arranged.

• Holy Week (week before Easter Sunday)

• International Workers' Day (May 1)

• Teachers' Day (June 22)

• First week of August (Patron Saint festivals)

• Independence Day (September 15)

• Day of the Dead (November 2)

• Christmas through New Year's Day

Application Process

Please fill out the application form and return it to the CIS with a non-refundable US$25 application fee, payable to CIS. Plan on arriving at the CIS at 7:45am on the Monday you start classes.

Weekly Prices (in US$)

Unfortunately, with the global economic situation as it is, prices of transportation and food are increasing in El Salvador. To keep up with the rising cost of living, CIS will be increasing the price of Spanish classes beginning July, 2008.

Weekly Prices Effective June 31st, 2008 (in US$)

Special Prices

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