Friday, December 23, 2005

Class helps immigrants communicate with officers

Immigrants from all countries must learn English and learn the laws here. Communication is the most necessary thing for anyone to succeed. Helping immigrants communicate with the police is a very important first step. DP

North County Times, NCTimes.com : VISTA, CA -- Less than six months after three Latino men were killed in deputy-involved shootings this summer, Vista Adult School is offering a program that encourages communication between law enforcement officers and English learners.

The "Talking With Police" program was not created as a response to the shootings ---- the idea for the course came up more than a year ago --- but the violence in late July and early August made it particularly timely, organizers said.

More than 500 English as a Second Language students participated in the first installment of the program, which began in October and ends this month.

San Diego County Sheriff's Department personnel are a key part of the course, which uses a workbook to take students through various situations dealing with law enforcement, including traffic stops, accidents, emergencies and identification of suspects.

Officials said the curriculum was intended to improve communication between the community and sheriff's deputies ---- something that is needed now more than ever.

Be sure to read the rest of this story! This is only a small part of it.

No comments: