School district addresses language needs of Somali-speaking students

Creighton Elementary District is taking significant steps to better serve its growing Somali student population, which has recently increased to 25 students speaking Somali as their home language. During the Governing Board Meeting on June 2, 2025, district officials discussed the challenges of effectively communicating with these families, emphasizing the need for multilingual representatives to bridge the language gap.

The district recognizes that while there are students from Somalia, not all of them speak Somali, complicating outreach efforts. To address this, officials are exploring partnerships with local Somali organizations to enhance support and resources for these families. This outreach aims to ensure that the district can provide adequate assistance and communication for all students.

In a move to improve understanding of the community's needs, the district is also updating its enrollment forms. Starting in the upcoming school year, families will be asked to specify both their home language and their preferred correspondence language. This change is expected to provide a clearer picture of how many families require translation services, allowing the district to allocate resources more effectively.

These initiatives reflect the district's commitment to inclusivity and support for its diverse student body, ensuring that all families have access to the educational resources they need. As the district continues to adapt to the changing demographics, these efforts will play a crucial role in fostering a welcoming environment for all students.