
English Learner Support Services
of Fairfield County
Inspiring and Empowering Newcomer Youth


ELSS of Fairfield County is a nonprofit organization – section 501(c)(3). It was established to meet the language support needs of English learners. Many of the immigrant youth we serve have recently arrived from Central and South America. They have experienced limited or interrupted formal education due to violence, war, natural disasters, or extreme poverty. These students typically cope with both academic and socioeconomic adversity; hence, ELSS provides supplemental English language programs to help ensure that they graduate from high school and secure entrance into postsecondary educational programs or obtain gainful employment. By collaborating with school districts and community organizations to provide our services, ELSS has been helping to close the opportunity gap in Fairfield County.
Our Board of Directors

Marla McDaniels Heath President & Co-Founder
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Tom Sobocinski

Peter Shaker
Executive Director & Founder (Ex officio)
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Honorary Members of the Board


Donna Tagliarino
Co-Founder
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