{ "id": 23219, "date": "2024-10-10T02:53:44", "date_gmt": "2024-10-10T07:53:44", "guid": { "rendered": "https:\/\/bilingualelibrary.org\/?p=23219" }, "modified": "2025-05-15T04:25:40", "modified_gmt": "2025-05-15T09:25:40", "slug": "showcasing-success-texas-department-of-commerce-visits-the-bilingual-e-library-at-black-elementary", "status": "publish", "type": "post", "link": "https:\/\/www.bilingualelibrary.org\/en\/showcasing-success-texas-department-of-commerce-visits-the-bilingual-e-library-at-black-elementary\/", "title": { "rendered": "Showcasing Success: Texas Department of Commerce Visits the Bilingual E-Library at Black Elementary" }, "content": { "rendered": "
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Empowering Families Through Literacy and Entrepreneurship: A Success Story<\/strong><\/h3>\n

At the heart of our mission is the transformative power of literacy and entrepreneurship within Hispanic communities. The Bilingual E-Library<\/strong>\u00a0at Black Elementary School<\/strong>,\u00a0one of seven elementary schools across Houston chosen to participate in this program, in collaboration with Aldine ISD<\/strong>\u00a0and the University of Houston Downtown (UHD)<\/strong>, is changing lives by improving reading comprehension, bringing families closer together, and empowering future entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n

The project is led by Dr. Maria Bhattacharjee<\/strong>, Director of the Bilingual E-Library<\/strong>, whose vision and dedication have been central to its success. Under her leadership, the library has grown into a vital resource for Hispanic families, offering access to a wide range of books in both English and Spanish, and helping families develop the literacy and technology skills they need for academic and professional success.<\/p>\n

The Power of Reading<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Reading is a gateway to new opportunities, and the Bilingual E-Library<\/strong>\u00a0is helping families in Houston access a vast collection of books. Families shared how reading together has not only enhanced their children’s education but also strengthened family bonds.<\/p>\n

During the event, Dr. Deborah Bordelon<\/strong>, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at UHD<\/strong>, highlighted how the Bilingual E-Library<\/strong>\u00a0is making a significant impact on both families and students. She emphasized how crucial the project is for shaping the future of education, ensuring that students are equipped with the literacy and technological skills necessary for success.<\/p>\n

Family Stories<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Parents shared their personal experiences, highlighting how the library\u2019s resources have improved their children’s reading skills and brought their families closer together. Through the guidance of the library and its resources, families have made reading a shared experience, enriching their homes.<\/p>\n

Sharing Stories Globally<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Bilingual E-Library\u2019s YouTube channel<\/strong>\u00a0acts as a global classroom, teaching essential skills in literacy and technology. By equipping families with these tools, the library prepares them for a modern, connected workforce.<\/p>\n

At the event, Dr. Jon Gant<\/strong>, Director of the Office of Minority Broadband Initiatives (OMBI)<\/strong>, expressed his support for the library’s mission. His work with the Connecting Minority Communities (CMC) Pilot Program<\/strong> aligns closely with the library’s efforts to bring technology access for all and opportunity to underserved communities.<\/p>\n

Entrepreneurship and Personal Growth<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The story of Nadia P\u00e9rez<\/strong>, featured in the video, is one of many examples of how the Bilingual E-Library<\/strong> is helping Hispanic families pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Supported by a grant from the Department of Commerce<\/strong>, Nadia turned her love for cooking into a career path, gaining skills that will help her succeed in the professional world.<\/p>\n