intercultural english classes

Tamy Barberana, a community leader and member of the Mountain Dreamers community committee, recognized a critical need among Spanish-speaking immigrants: learning English as a key step to thriving in Summit County. As an immigrant herself, Tamy saw that English skills could open doors to better job opportunities, stronger engagement with schools, and fuller participation in community life.

The idea began to take shape in 2023, when Tamy, in collaboration with Mountain Dreamers, reached out to her former teacher, Miss Jennifer Wescott, along with Risa Holmes and her nephew John, to bring the vision to life. On July 2nd of 2024, the pieces fell into place when the 10 Mile Music Hall, through the generosity of owner Todd, offered the space free of charge to support the effort.

Since then, the classes have succeeded thanks to the support of English-speaking volunteers, allowing for personalized instruction tailored to each student's needs. More than just language lessons, these classes provide a gateway to understanding local culture, connecting with community resources, and building a stronger, more inclusive Summit County. To date, the program has served over 100 students and included the support of the classes of Samantha Robertson & Risa Holmes, along with over 10 volunteers.

2026 Calendar

Block 1: January 27 to March 24 (Last day of classes with snowshoeing or nordic skiing)

Block 2: April 14 to June 9 (Last day of classes at the Elks Lodge dinner in Silverthorne)

Block 3: June 30 to August 25 (Last day of classes at the Marina Pantoon)

Block 4: September 22 to November 17

Get involved

  • When & Where?

    Tuesdays from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm at the Mountain Dreamers office: 619 Main Street #10B, Frisco, CO 80443

  • Students

    For more information or to register, please complete our contact form or call us at 970-368-6354.

    Everyone is welcome; you can start at any time. Did you miss a class? No problem, you will always be welcome.

    Contact us!

  • Volunteers

    Come to the English Classes at 5:20 pm at the Mountain Dreamers office. We are trying something new. We encourage you to sign up to be a volunteer for each class anytime you are available.

    9 volunteers for each class to support beginner and intermediate levels.

    Signup form:

  • News

    There are days when Tammy Barberena has to rely on her middle school-aged son to understand how he’s doing in school. 

    Barberena, who speaks Spanish, struggles to communicate with teachers and staff at Summit School District…

    Read the full article

  • Testimony

    I joined the Intercultural English classes at the end of 2024, which allowed me to understand my employers, watch TV & read the Summit Daily for the first time in English. I participate in activities in the county, such as the Breck Create photography class.

    Thank you to everyone! Bertha

  • Partners

    With the support of Café Rescue, the classes can receive drinks or snacks at each class.

    The Town of Breckenridge Equity Advisory Commission provided a scholarship to launch the project in 2024.

  • 2026 Calendar

    Block 1: January 27 to March 24

    Block 2: April 14 to June 9

    Block 3: June 30 to August 25

    Block 4: September 22 to November 17