What DOES A.H.A.V.A. DO?
A.H.A.V.A has developed a unique English literacy program for both native Hebrew and English speaking children. We provide effective English language instruction in Israel at a cost affordable to all socioeconomic levels. This goal is achieved via properly educated (and paid) teachers working in small
groups, with innovative and engaging educational materials.
In addition, A.H.A.V.A. builds libraries in schools in the Jerusalem area, and runs teacher training programs all over the country. Every year A.H.A.V.A. has a read-a-thon contest which encourages children to read and improve their English significantly.
Putting many years of experience together, A.H.A.V.A. has developed a unique reader for early readers of English as a foreign language, Reading Rocks!
What is A.H.A.V.A?
A.H.A.V.A. – “English Learned in a Natural Method” – is the only non-profit organization in Israel dedicated solely to English literacy promotion among disadvantaged children, especially those living in geographically and socially peripheral areas of the country.
A.H.A.V.A. was founded in 2000 by Gaila Cohen-Morrison, an experienced English teacher who was determined to provide affordable English education to marginalized communities.
About A.H.A.V.A.
Shira* is 15. She’s dreamt of being a doctor since she was seven. Shira is an excellent student, but her school only offers limited hours of English education. As a result, her English is not strong enough to pass the English matriculation exam. Shira cannot even apply to medical school. Her mother, a teacher’s aide, and her father, a janitor, struggling to make ends meet, are disappointed. They want a better future for their daughter.
Last year, less than half of all eligible 12th graders even attempted the English matriculation exam to receive a high school diploma. In fact, less than half of all high school students pursue college degrees - 32% of Jewish Israelis, and 11% of Arab Israelis.
Alisa’s* mother is a daycare worker and her father is a truck driver. They live in temporary housing and constantly struggle with debt. Yet her mother was determined that Alisa have more future educational options that the system offers. Alisa has been enrolled in A.H.A.V.A. programming since she was six. Today she takes classes with native English speakers.
(*the names and some details have been changed for privacy)
For more information regarding English literacy in Israel, please visit the following sites:
http://www.etni.org.il http://www.anglit.net/main http://www.barbarasofer.com