Ascend: More Than Memorization—A Real Path to Citizenship

Mani Rubio

April 19, 2026

Led by Ramiro Marroquín IV, SRA Ministries’ Ascend! program is transforming citizenship preparation by focusing on conversation, reading, and writing in English. Students from across the Metroplex are gaining confidence and real skills to succeed on their citizenship journey.

At SRA Ministries, preparing for the U.S. citizenship test goes far beyond memorizing answers. Through the Ascend! program, students develop essential skills in speaking, reading, and writing in English to ensure they arrive confident and fully prepared for their citizenship interview. The program is led by Ramiro Marroquín IV, a 28-year-old instructor who brings both passion and personal experience into the classroom. His approach focuses on real communication, helping students not only remember the 128 civics questions but also express themselves clearly in English. This comprehensive method has made a significant difference for many participants. Students are not just learning—they are gaining confidence. The goal is to prepare them for success on one of the most important days of their lives.

One of those students, Mosehn Fadu, shared his experience with the program. “I have tried other organizations, but they focused only on memorizing the questions, and I had to pay a lot of money for their ‘service,’” he said. He explained that what he truly needed was practice in speaking and writing English, which other programs did not provide. “It was not a good fit for me,” he added. After hearing about SRA Ministries from a friend, he decided to give it a try. “I tell you, this is the best thing that has happened to me,” he said. His story reflects the impact of a program designed around real needs. It is not just about passing a test—it is about building lasting skills.

For Ramiro, the journey to becoming a teacher was not always clear. “A couple of years ago, when I saw SRA Ministries’ ad on social media for an AmeriCorps opportunity to become a teacher, I was in two pieces,” he shared. “I needed a job and money, but I was not sure if I could become a teacher.” Despite coming from a family of educators and holding a college degree, he doubted whether teaching was the right path for him. Added to that was the challenge of his disability, which often shaped how others perceived him in job interviews. “I would go to interviews with my walker, and people would look at me with surprise. I would say, ‘Yes ma’am, I was born with a disability. Yes ma’am, I graduated from college. Yes ma’am, I can handle a job.’ But they would never call me back,” he explained. When Angel Del Rio invited him for an interview, everything changed. “We met, we clicked, and here I am almost three years later teaching the Citizenship in English program called Ascend!,” he said with pride.

Students are willing to go the extra mile to be part of this program. Ms. Bella Farruq shared, “I come from North Dallas, and it takes me at least an hour to drive here, but it is worth it.” She expressed her hope that SRA Ministries can expand its services across the Metroplex. “I would love to see more locations, both in the south and in the north of Dallas, so more people can have access to this program,” she said. Citizenship classes in English are held in person at Jubilee Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, and online on Mondays and Wednesdays at the same time. Ramiro serves as the instructor for both formats, continuing to guide students with dedication and heart. Through Ascend!, SRA Ministries is not only preparing students for citizenship—it is opening doors to confidence, opportunity, and a stronger future.