In 1970, community leader Carlos Rosario had a vision: to create a space in Washington, D.C. where immigrants could learn English, gain new skills, and support one another as they built new lives in a new country. That vision became PEILA—the Program of English Instruction for Latin Americans—and it quickly grew into a cornerstone of adult education in the city.

By the 1990s, PEILA had become a nationally recognized model, earning praise from the U.S. Department of Education and serving thousands of adult learners each year.

Then, everything changed.

In 1995, a financial crisis forced the District of Columbia to eliminate funding for adult education programs. The school closed. The building was lost. For a moment, it seemed like the end of the road.

But the team didn’t give up.

Principal Sonia Gutierrez began rebuilding from scratch, starting in her own basement. The school reorganized as a nonprofit and applied for charter status, an unusual move at the time for a school serving adults. With determination and resourcefulness, the team laid the foundation for a new beginning.

At a time when few lenders were willing to take a chance on charter schools—especially those serving adult learners—RDF stepped up. We provided the financing needed to purchase a new building and offered guidance every step of the way. Our team toured properties, helped structure the deal, and worked alongside school leaders to move the project forward.

“By 1999, RDF was providing us with the financing we needed to purchase a building for our school—a lifeline at a time when banks were hesitant to support charter schools,” said Carlos. Rosario CEO Allison Kokkoros. “Their backing not only gave us resources but also credibility.”

When the charter authorizer called a public hearing to review the application, community members packed the room to show their support. The message was clear: this school mattered, and it needed to reopen.

In 2004, the newly named Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School opened its Harvard Street campus. Within months, a waiting list of more than 1,000 students had formed. With continued support from RDF, the school expanded again, opening a second campus to serve even more learners.

Today, the Carlos Rosario School is a vital part of Washington, D.C., supporting thousands of immigrants each year as they gain the education, credentials, and confidence to build meaningful careers and more secure futures. Their story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when perseverance is met with the right support—and of the lasting impact that comes from investing in people and their potential.

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