Citizenship class sending two to state exam

Latinos for Washington says two people taking its preparation courses for the citizenship test are ready for the exam, and can now start the lengthy application process before making a trip to Des Moines to take the test.

“They still have to file their paperwork, send a picture, do thumbprints … they have to do all that in order to receive an appointment,” Organization Co-founder Sonia Leyva said. “It’s a process where it varies. Some people have done it and they receive their appointment to go take the test in five or six months, some people have been waiting for their appointment for over a year.”

Both participants that passed the practice test also qualified for the 100% attendance scholarship granted by Latinos for Washington, which pays for half the $730 cost to take the real citizenship test.

Both of the practice test-takers who passed said they were thankful for the opportunity.

“My experience in the classes was more than excellent,” said José L. Calixto. “I never thought I would learn so much in such a short time, and I am very grateful to this Latinos for Washington citizenship program and all the people who work in this organization. I want to invite all people who want to or are thinking about applying for their citizenship to attend the classes.”

While two more people took this round of classes but did not pass the practice test, Leyva said they were likely to keep trying.

“Usually the ones that go get really motivated seeing everybody else do it and then they do come back,” she said. “So we’ve had several people that come back and then they finally do pass it.”

Leyva emphasized that the citizenship test was challenging, with extensive preparation required to memorize the 100 possible questions.

“It’s not as easy as it seems,” she said. “Most people have tried or are trying or are in the process, or don’t have the support or the money. Latinos for Washington is here to try to make it as easy as possible and be a support for others in the community. We have to support each other, so whether people do it through volunteering or monetary donations … it really helps people to reach their American dream.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com