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Preach It!

This recent letter to the editor encompasses many of the blogs I have written about… inequity of English Language Learners (ELLs), dual language programs, and common sense!

The writer comes right out and states the problem- racial disparity in many areas specifically in the advanced learner program (AL) as it directly affects the ESL student population, their future and education. The stakes are high.

65% of the student population are ELLS, yet only the other 35% of the population are truly qualified for AL. You are leaving out the majority.

Both the MAP and Cogat, needed for entrance into AL are designed for a monolingual student when 65% of the student population is bilingual.

 

Kristen Marie Scott, teacher at Nuestro Mundo Community School, states the overwhelming obvious truths. After reading these next two quotes by her in her letter to the editor, one might want to say out loud, “Preach It!”

“No standardized measure in Spanish has been adopted by the district, even though we are now 13 years into dual language immersion.”

“I am convinced that if our ELL students were to be evaluated on what they can do in Spanish, the face of AL would change districtwide. However, what students can do in Spanish seems inconsequential.”

“… our students deserve a chance to demonstrate their biliteracy, and because, if the district truly wants to "allow access and more opportunity for students of color" then for the sake of ELL students, let them prove their advanced learner mettle in Spanish! ¡Sí se puede!” (Yes, you can!)

 

http://host.madison.com/ct/opinion/mailbag/kristen-marie-scott-english-language-tests-for-advanced-learners-gives/article_256252b4-d62b-5c00-baf3-799263a0c6e8.html

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