We are a small, rural middle school(grades 6-8) with a fair sized population of Latin students. Last year in the 8th grade we pioneered the sheltered classes for our Non-English speaking students. This meant that they traveled together and took classes with the ESL teacher and regular Ed teacher in the room at the same time. It worked so well that 6th and 7th grade asked to participate and be included. This easel would allow us to have a chart that can be used in many different ways. The original idea was the ESL teacher could write in Spanish the lesson or vocabulary on the chart for those that are still not really comfortable in English. It also allows for ease in carrying the easel and pad to other classes as needed, like math, science or social studies. Then for PTO, parent night, orientation, etc we can easily move the easels out in the hall way to hold signs and directions for all the visitors to the school.
This may not sound like much, but it's great to offer directions in both languages, it aids in the growth of learning and boosts self-esteem among all visitors to not have to ask directions. While we are small, 500 students, we are in two buildings with three hallways.
A little about us, we are in Eastern North Carolina, about an hour from the beach. We are one of the largest turkey and hog producing areas. We are also known for our winery. We have no large cities and our industry is agriculture. Our kids work hard and try hard, like I stated in the beginning, our sheltered inclusion class was pioneered, and is now a most sought after class by teachers. The district was so happy with it that we are the model school and others come to see us and what we have done. Most importantly our kids liked it, grew and left our 8th grade with self confidence, understanding of other cultures and motivation to go on to high school. The native English speakers liked it as well and report that they feel more comfortable in their Spanish Class, which is required for graduation in this state.
Thank you for taking the time to read this, and think of our kids. We appreciate all that the donors do for us, and the students are always so tickled to think that people who don't know them want to help.
Thank you.
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