BACKGROUND                                                    

Country Homes School was founded in 1979 to help meet the needs of refugees arriving in the Spokane area as a result of the Vietnam War. The first students, who were Vietnamese, Hmong and Laotion, knew little or no English and had very few resources. These students were provided tutors, nursery care and transportation to help prepare them for life in the United States. The school was, and remains, a fully funded mission of Country Homes Christian Church. Any adult is welcome and there is no charge for instruction, childcare, or transportation.

Over the years, Country Homes School has helped hundreds of students from dozens of countries. Many have become employed, gone on to college and/or earned citizenship as a result of the school. It became apparent, however, that not all students (especially the elderly) are equipped socially or emotionally to move on to more traditional schooling or employment. Our aim is to meet the needs of the whole person, and we consider social and emotional needs as important as academic goals. Kindness and compassion help students cope with the loneliness and alienation that can be part of living in an adopted country.

Country Homes School is a vital part of the local ministry of Country Homes Church. Many of our volunteer tutors are members of this and neighboring churches, although church affiliation is not required. All that is necessary to volunteer is a knowledge of the English language and a sincere desire to held others.

Country Homes School continues to meet the needs of a diverse group of people in our community through love, commitment and sharing.

MISSION

To reach out to the foreign born adult. To assess this person's individual needs and plan instruction to meet those needs; and thereby assist this person to become a more self-reliant member of his or her community.

OBJECTIVE

To offer support and understanding from a dedicated staff and a caring community.

ELIGIBILITY

Minimum age is 18; a warm invitation is extended to the foreign born people from other nations and cultures who are resettling or temporarily living in Spokane.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION

A desire to learn; the instruction is free of charge, since teachers are volunteers who teach one-to-one and in small groups. Prospective students start on our waiting list until we are able to provide a tutor of their own.

SCHOOL SCHEDULE

Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:30-11:30 a.m. - Following the Mead school calendar.

SPECIAL SERVICE AVAILABLE

Childcare is provided during school hours for both students and tutors.

CONTACT PERSON Calli Foxworth   509-466-3414
ADDRESS 8415 North Wall Street Spokane Washington 99208