During a recent government meeting, Dr. Thurman, principal of Marvin Elementary School, highlighted the school's commitment to supporting its 127 English learners, predominantly Spanish speakers. The discussion centered on the innovative strategies implemented to enhance language acquisition and cultural representation within the school community.

Dr. Thurman emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating that the goal is for all students to feel represented and prepared to become productive citizens. To achieve this, Marvin Elementary has adopted various teaching methods that incorporate both English and Spanish, allowing students to engage with content while learning the language.

Liz Harms, an English Learner (EL) specialist, shared insights into the classroom practices that facilitate language learning. She noted that teachers are encouraged to present information in both languages and utilize cognates—words that are similar in both languages—to aid comprehension. Additionally, students are allowed to respond in their home language, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder their learning.

The school has also introduced a family subscription to Duolingo, enabling 36 adult Spanish learners to improve their language skills alongside their children. This initiative fosters a collaborative learning environment where both students and parents can support each other in language acquisition.

Teachers like Rachel Holton and Jessie Pavlak discussed specific strategies used in their classrooms, such as Total Physical Response, which combines physical movement with vocabulary learning. This approach not only benefits English learners but enhances the learning experience for all students.

Students expressed their appreciation for the bilingual support they receive. One student, Paula, shared how her teacher's use of Spanish helps her understand her assignments better, while another student highlighted the importance of teachers learning from their students in a reciprocal educational relationship.

Overall, the meeting underscored Marvin Elementary's proactive approach to language education, showcasing a model that values cultural diversity and promotes effective learning strategies for English learners.