Search

FM   UCI   People
Home : Directions : A&BS : UCI : Contact Us : SNAP : IT Tools
   
 






Kristien makes practicing speaking, listening, reading and writing fun. Kristien was given the groundskeeper's job descriptions so she could incorporate vocabulary specific to their daily tasks into the lessons. The students get 2 homework assignments on Thursday that they complete over the weekend. Kristien reports the students are doing very well, and word is the grounds keepers are thrilled with this learning opportunity. The program has been enormously successful on every level, and requests have already started coming in for an intermediate level class. Thanks, Kristien for having the vision and taking the time to address the needs of your new colleagues.

Kristien Evans teaching

Students learning

Students in discussion

Groundskeepers Grow Skills

In September 2007, UCI insourced grounds keeping services, and Facilities Management hired 40 employees who had been working for the campus. contractor, Commercial Landscape. The mutually beneficial move was accomplished with a minimum of disruption to the campus, and the new employees have developed into real anteaters and true members of the campus community. Part of their assimilation is directly due to the efforts of Kristien Evans, a Facilities employee who also happens to be a qualified ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher.

When she heard that some of the guys needed to learn some English and others needed to hone their English skills, she volunteered her services and worked with Rob Rice, assistant director of facilities, in charge of grounds, to implememt an ESL program. The new grounds employees were enthusiastic, and classes began in February. Three afternoons a week, the students meet for an hour at the end of their work day. Facilities Management has supported this program by allowing a half hour of paid time - the other half hour is unpaid.