A student in West Hartford’s Adult ESL program is now tutoring students at Sedgwick Middle School.

By Caren Dickman

Maria Romero Pareja, a bright, determined young woman, would have eventually achieved her goals single-handedly, but the West Hartford Adult Education Program, along with the support of her husband and family, helped her achieve them more quickly than she could have imagined.

Maria and her husband Fran came to the United States in August 2025 from Valencia, Spain. Fran’s employer, Suominen, promoted him to Vice President of Sales in America, requiring him to transfer to the states. Both were excited about the opportunity to explore the rich culture and wide range of opportunities while improving their English.

Maria agreed to interrupt her career in health research administration so that together,they could pursue this dream. They chose West Hartford because his co-workers recommended it as a desirable place to live. 

Maria Romero Pareja (left) and Darius Sanchez Narvaez. Courtesy photo

Just one week after moving here, Maria began her journey by enrolling in English classes. Though she learned English grammar and speaking in Spain, she was more comfortable communicating in Spanish. The library directed her to the West Hartford Adult Education ESL Program to improve her skills.

“What I enjoy most about the Adult Education classes is being surrounded by people from different countries and cultures who share the same purpose,” Maria said.

Next on Maria’s agenda was getting a job, so she began her search for a position in academia. Interviewing was a struggle.

“Trying to express your strengths in a language you’re still not comfortable with can be intimidating and it can affect your confidence.” she said. Her husband supported and cheered her on throughout this emotional process.

What Maria did not expect was that the West Hartford Adult Ed Program would also be able to help her with her job search. The program’s career navigator told Maria about an ESOL tutor position in the West Hartford school system. Public education was new to her, but she applied anyway. Shelley Solomon, the director of the West Hartford Adult Education Program, recommended her and Maria started in mid-November. 

Maria Vitoria Cassiano DeOliveira (left) and Maria Romero Pareja. Courtesy photo

Sedgwick Middle School Principal Karen Kukish is very happy about the partnership with the town’s West Hartford Adult Education Program. “To have Maria join us to help foster the growth of our wonderful English learners is an honor for us. Our West Hartford Adult Education Program has brought us the talented and dedicated staff that help us instill a sense of community and belonging at Sedgwick,” Kukish said.

Maria is very happy supporting her students with speaking and reading skills to complete their homework, and she is personally benefitting as well. “I am in a unique position to encourage them because I know how they feel. At the same time, I am learning more English as I help them do the same.”

Chalise Ross, the townwide ESOL curriculum specialist who works directly with Maria added, “She has been a great addition to our team, making strong connections to the students and school community.”

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford! Click the blue button below to become a supporter of We-Ha.com and our efforts to continue producing quality journalism.