The Quintana Center provides classes in civics education and ESL to prepare eligible newcomers and refugees to attain a full understanding of U.S. history and government as well as the responsibilities, rights, and requirements related to becoming a citizen of the United States

The Quintana Center Citizenship Program Offers: A spring, fall and summer term Day and evening classes Small class groups   Trained Citizenship Instructors Updated curriculum to meet federal requirements Worksheets and study guides Interview practice Online and In-class test practice Field Trips Partnership with Philips Andover Academy Spring (October-January)  - $50/term (includes text book) Term runs for 16 weeks  Tuesdays and Thursdays - 6:00 - 7:30 pm; or Saturdays - 10:00 - 1:30 pm Fall Terms (February-May) - $50/term (includes text book) Terms runs for 16 weeks  Tuesdays and Thursdays - 6:00 - 7:30 pm; or Saturdays - 10:00 - 1:30 pm Summer Term (end of May to end of July) - $50/term  (includes text book) Tuesdays and Thursdays - 6:00 - 7:30 pm; or Saturdays - 10:00 - 1:30 pm Students must register prior to each term with placements first come/first served. Registration is closed after the conclusion of the first week of classes. The Quintana Center Naturalization Program Offers: Year round services A BIA certified representative Continued assistance throughout the naturalization process Opportunity to consult with an immigration attorney Assistance with completing the N-400 and I-90 Assistance with translation Financial Assistance

Joel Pena has always aspired to be an American Citizen. He was able  to move to the United States in 2012 from the Dominican Republic when he was 19 years old. Joel has Cerebral Palsy, but has never let it hold him back in life. As a child, Joel had very little opportunity for education. He had a lot of setbacks and challenges to get to school due to no transportation- aside from his difficulty walking. Joel, like all of us, just needed the right support and opportunities to grow. Joel’s spirit and advocacy  has never let his disability, poverty, neglects/abuses, or sexual orientation limit his dream. Thanks to the Department of Developmental Services, The Arc, and Grimaldy Rios, Joel was able to find a Shared Living Home provider where he feels accepted and loved as a family member. With the support of his team and technology Joel was able to successfully study for his U.S. Citizenship interview. This entailed learning how to read, write and learn English. After much effort and perseverance this year Joel finally received his American citizenship, 2 certificates of completion for English and is in the process of completing his GED.  Joel’s ultimate goal in life is to become an inspirational speaker and mentor, especially for those going through similar things in life he did. Today, Joel feels accepted in life.