SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Parents say La Casita is making significant strides in children’s education. The Syracuse business is trying to foster positive community changes through its summer program.
At the heart of La Casita’s initiatives is a program designed to provide support to families in need while offering a diverse array of educational opportunities for children.
Beyond academic subjects, children participating in La Casita’s program are immersing themselves in the arts, particularly learning to play the violin. However, the educational programs extend far beyond music. Parents say they are happy to witness their children diving into diverse cultures, languages, and the importance of community engagement.
Mike Sun, father of student Bella Pagan, said he appreciates the program’s diverse curriculum.
“It allowed us to sort of learn about things we wouldn’t have otherwise,” said Sun. “For example, they are taking classes in violin, drawing, and dance. These are classes that probably wouldn’t have been accessible otherwise.”
The dedicated teachers at La Casita are instrumental in supporting children’s talents and instilling valuable skills. Office Coordinator Carrie Valenzuela highlighted the inclusive environment fostered at La Casita.
“We share our cultures, speak Spanish, share food, and engage in various activities that promote unity and creativity,” said Valenzuela.
La Casita welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of language proficiency.
Amya Reevas, a participant learning to play the piano, said the atmosphere at La Casita is supportive.
“I’m really grateful that we came here because before that, getting into any programs or anything, my mom has been talking about wanting to get us into a program,” said Reevas.
Ameera Reeves, Amya’s mother, discussed the many different opportunities available at La Casita, particularly for homeschooling families like theirs.
“I’m very grateful for La Casita because I home school my children, so this is a perfect opportunity for them to be around kids, learn a little bit of Spanish, and play with instruments,” said Reeves.
As La Casita’s summer program opens for enrollment, La Casita plans to continue its mission of empowering children through education and community engagement.
For updates on La Casita’s programs and reopening schedule, interested individuals can visit their website or follow them on social media.
Transcript
REPORTER JALYSS LYANN:
These children are learning how to play the violin, but that’s not all they’re learning. Here at La Casita, parents can bring their kids to learn about diverse cultures, languages, and the importance of community. Mike Sun, father of Bella Pagan, says his favorite part is the diverse range of courses available.
Mike Sun:
“Allowed us to sorta learn about things we wouldn’t of otherwise for example, they are taking classes in violian, they also have taken classes in drawing and also dance. These are classes that probably wouldn’t have been able to get exposed to otherwise.”
REPORTER JALYSS LYANN:
Families are proud to know their children are in the care of teachers who are dedicated to helping teach them new skills. Office Coordinator Carrie Valenzuela describes it as the go-to place to welcome you just as you are.
Carrie Valenzuela: Office Coordinator
“Share our cultures, speak Spanish, share the food, talk about where were from and make our own voices, make art work, make music together and just engage with each other.”
REPORTER JALYSS LYANN:
Even if you don’t speak Spanish, La Casita is a place where anyone can start. Take Amya Reevas, for example. She is beginning to learn the piano. Reevas says this place has been a supportive environment for her.
Amya reaveskirkland:
“I’m really grateful that we came here cause before that, getting into any programs or anything my mom has been talking about wanting to get us in a program”
REPORTER JALYSS LYANN:
Reaves mother, Ameera Reaves, says the opportunities here are endless.
Ameera reeves
“I’m very grateful for La Casita because I homeschool my children so this is a perfect opportunity for them to be around kids you know learn a little bit of spanish and also again to play with instruments and things we don’t get to do at home.”