LATAA School Graduation Ceremonies
It was a dream coming true for some of us. For some, it was a passion to teach our very own language to our kids. And maybe for some, it was simply an interest to learn another language. But for all, what brought us together on March 29, 2008 was our goal to promote understanding between Turkish and American community and speak the same language. None of us in the LATAA board had any experience being involved in such an activity. However, each one of us felt we should bring this service to our kids and also help interested adults learn Turkish. With a great help from our volunteer instructors and our parents, we were able to bring a talented group of children for a six week period and teach their native language.
Admittedly, it was not enough. It was simply a start. After all, Turkish is a complex language and is very different than English. Therefore, it is not possible to make a lot of progress in having our students speak Turkish. However, it was a pretty good start. We definitely encourage our students continue making efforts learning Turkish by speaking their parents or loved ones and attending our school starting in Fall 2008. LATAA definitely needs continuing support from the members of our community to keep our school alive and running. Our board has the will to do so.
LATAA Turkish School opened its doors at UCLA last spring. We had a total of 17 kids and 5 adults as students and 4 very enthusiastic and lovely instructors. We offered Turkish classes in three sections: one for adults, and two for kids with different age groups. Language was not the only goal. In our classes, we did our best to introduce modern Turkish culture and Ataturk. It is our goal to promote the understanding of our traditions as well. We have been pleased with the attendance and encouraged with the positive response from our parents and students. We plan to continue our school next fall semester and we need your help. Please bring your kids and adults that may be interested to our school. Building upon our experience, we hope to make our school better and even more professional.
On a more personal note, Turkish School has been the most notable and exciting volunteer activity I have ever been involved in my life. I believe all our LATAA board members and instructors would join me in expressing their thanks for your support. However, we have more way to go. And all LATAA board members and instructors are excited to carry on this volunteer undertaking.
Onur Bakir
LATAA Secretary
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2007-2008 LATAA Board
Nihan Bol - President | Volkan Duygun - Vice President | Onur Bakır - Board Member
Mine Çağlar - Board Member | Fatma Girit - Board Member | Ayşe Onur - Board Member
Tülay Polat - Board Member | Tolga Yaprak - Board Member