Learn What Our Students Have to Say about Their CCSF Journeys.
Every year we serve over 37,000 students with various backgrounds and educational goals. Some students are interested in obtaining an AA/AS degrees. Other students are interested in transferring to CSUs or UCs or other 4-year universities. A number of students are interested in obtaining a second degree or certificate in a specific area of their interest for their career development.
Some are interested in finding interesting courses for their personal enrichment. Others are interested in obtaining a high school diploma, improving their English, or learning new trade skills that can lead to a new path in their career. There are so many possibilities at CCSF.
We look forward to sharing stories of our CCSF students' journeys, which will help better explain why you should consider CCSF on the path to achieving your personal or professional goals.
Story of CCSF Student Journey #2:
Elli Yoder - One of the Youngest CCSF Attendees
Interview and Article by Cathy Chang, CCSF Outreach and Recruitment (Published in July 2024)
I met Elli when she was only two years old. My office is located right next to the Child Observation classroom, where Elli attends with her nanny, Edilma. The Child Observation class is one of the popular classes at CCSF. I have the special privilege of meeting many adorable little kids who are excited to attend this class with their parents, grandparents, or nannies.
I got to know Elli as I saw her throughout the school year. When Edilma told me how much Elli loves to come to CCSF, I wanted to learn more. Elli says that CCSF is her favorite place, and she prefers to spend time at CCSF more than at her playground. Elli loves to learn new things and makes new friends in her class.
I was curious to learn more about Elli and why the class was so engaging for her. I reached out to both Elli’s mom and her class instructor, Cathy Richardson, to learn more about Elli and the special magic that inspires and motivates young children like her to love learning.
Elli Yoder was born during COVID in December 2020. Elli was the first child of Cora (Mom) and Drew (Dad). Elli’s instructor, Ms. Cathy, remembers nine-month-old Elli as very timid when she first started attending class. Today, Elli has completely transformed into a confident, smart, and active three-year-old.
Elli is very curious and speaks three different languages – English, Spanish, and Cantonese. I asked why she likes to spend time at CCSF. Elli’s response was “because of art and slime projects and painting.”
I reached out to Cora and Ms. Cathy to gather more insights into Elli’s transformation. According to Cora, her daughter learned so much by observing and interacting with other kids and adults at CCSF. Cora has seen Elli’s personal transformation, with the help of Edilma and Ms. Cathy, who have cultivated a great learning environment where kids can succeed in various social and academic settings. Cora says that Elli has achieved many learning milestones since she turned three. Cora also highlights communication as one of the significant areas of Elli’s transformation through the Child Observation class.
Ms. Cathy shares her own experience with Elli. She also recognizes that painting is Elli’s favorite activity, and how much she enjoys using many different paintbrushes and utensils. Elli enjoys eating lunch with other children in the hallway after her class is over. As she leaves class, Elli always tells Ms. Cathy “hasta manana” (see you tomorrow) with a smile. Ms. Cathy also notes how much Elli’s self-confidence and creativity have increased over the years by removing her fear and utilizing her imagination.
Cora appreciates the class structure that allows Elli to have unique opportunities to learn about new cultures by interacting with different families and kids. Cora is grateful for Ms. Cathy speaking in Spanish, the weekly rotation of toys, and an instructor who cares so much about the development of every child by taking time to curate special toys and art projects based on their interests.
I asked Cora and Ms. Cathy to share something memorable about Elli’s time in the CCSF class. Cora says, “one of our favorite memories is closing out each day at City College singing various children’s songs. It’s something Elli loves and brings home. For our family, it has been joyful to see her sing and dance every day at school.”
Ms. Cathy says, “a wonderful example of Elli’s transformation is what happens at the end of our singing time. Elli went from being a very shy and timid child to one who always wants to be the very first child in the group to give me a hug! Elli will always be in my heart.”
After interviewing both Cora and Ms. Cathy, I can see why the CCSF Child Observation class is such a magical place for both children and their caregivers. Not only do children develop academic and social skills, but caregivers also learn to effectively support their children’s development. Our expert instructors can discuss any specific topics related to child development to help children and their families thrive. To learn more about the free CCSF Child Observation classes at the Ocean campus and at our Centers, contact our Child Development advisors at cdev@ccsf.edu today!
