Mission Statement
Mission Language And Vocational School is a non-profit organization in the Mission District of San Francisco. Our mission is to improve the socio-economic condition of limited or non-English speaking, low and moderate-income Latinos and other underserved populations in San Francisco and the Bay Area. We provide job-specific language and vocational training programs and the creation of economic development initiatives. Support services such as career counseling, job placement assistance, and referral services are an integral part of MLVS’ programs. MLVS strives to empower underserved populations and improve the community through social, economic, and educational advancements.
Our History
Mission Language And Vocational School (MLVS) has been in continuous operation for the past 50+ years. MLVS is well-known and respected in the community. The concept of MLVS was established in 1962 by Mexican laborers who were members of the Construction Laborers Union Local 261. Realizing the need for education and job training, they established the “Centro Social Obrero,” which in 1968 transformed into MLVS. After incorporation in 1971, the school was able to purchase the facility at 2929 19th Street and expand its instructional programs. Formerly the site of the Pelton Water Wheel Company, the 35,072-square-foot building today houses twenty classrooms, a testing unit, administrative offices, a language lab/media center, fully equipped computer and office simulation classrooms, a multi-purpose student center, and the Florida Street Catering Services, a flourishing catering operation that serves clientele both off/on-site in our spacious hall/banquet facility. MLVS is a recognized leader and innovator in the field of Vocational Medical Assistant Certification, Culinary Skills Certification, and an expert in job-skills training.
Our Philosophy
Mission Language And Vocational School believes in achievement through education. Students can best achieve the optimum outcomes for their lives: well-paying jobs, stable and productive relationships in their communities through education and training that makes them capable and confident. The board of directors also emphasizes the importance of instructing students in their rights and responsibilities as citizens and instilling a sense of community. The staff and faculty of MLVS are committed to providing quality programs leading to the betterment of our students’ lives and futures.
Rosario Anaya
Rosario Anaya, Executive Director, 1973 - 2015
Our Founder
Abel Gonzalez/ Jimenez? 1962
Mr. Gonzalez arrived from Mexico at the age of 23, with only $200 in his pocket and the belief that San Francisco was “A magical Place where anyone could start again.” He believed that education was a key ingredient for immigrant communities. As a rank-and-file member of the Laborer’s Local Union 261, he pursued his vision of equal education for immigrants and took on a leadership role in unifying his fellow workers by founding The Central Social Obrero & later Mission Language and Vocational School (MLVS). Central Social Obrero, an organization of immigrant workers, became a local voice of immigrant workers and a local voice in the labor community and the San Francisco Latino community at large.
Statement of Non-Discrimination
Statement of Approval Disclosure
Rosario Anaya
Rosario Anaya, Executive Director, 1973 - 2015
Our Founder
Abel Gonzalez/ Jimenez? 1962
Mr. Gonzalez arrived from Mexico at the age of 23, with only $200 in his pocket and the belief that San Francisco was “A magical Place where anyone could start again.” He believed that education was a key ingredient for immigrant communities. As a rank-and-file member of the Laborer’s Local Union 261, he pursued his vision of equal education for immigrants and took on a leadership role in unifying his fellow workers by founding The Central Social Obrero & later Mission Language and Vocational School (MLVS). Central Social Obrero, an organization of immigrant workers, became a local voice of immigrant workers and a local voice in the labor community and the San Francisco Latino community at large.