Freeport High School Advocates for Full-Time ESOL Teacher Amid Budget Cuts

During the recent RSU 05 Board Meeting, school counselors and educators voiced strong concerns regarding a proposed reduction in the district's English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program. The discussion centered on the potential impact of cutting a full-time ESOL teacher position by half, which could significantly affect the support provided to multilingual students at the high school level.

Liz, a school counselor, emphasized that the reduction would lead to the loss of the district's most experienced secondary ESOL teacher, who holds a master's degree in secondary education. She highlighted that high school students face unique academic, social, and emotional challenges, making specialized support crucial for their success. Liz argued that the current data used to inform budget decisions does not adequately reflect the complexities of filling part-time positions or the increasing number of multilingual students enrolling throughout the year. She urged the board to consider a smaller reduction of 0.2 instead, to maintain essential ESOL support across all grade levels.

Jill Hyland, an ESOL teacher with over two decades of experience, echoed these sentiments, stressing that the role of an ESOL teacher extends beyond language instruction. She described the multifaceted support they provide, acting as advocates, mentors, and safe spaces for students navigating a challenging world. Jill warned that reducing the position would disrupt the strong relationships and consistency that have contributed to the students' current success. She pointed out that the recommended instructional model from the Maine Department of Education emphasizes the importance of direct instruction from ESOL-endorsed teachers, which would be compromised by the proposed cuts.

The board's discussions reflect a critical moment for the ESOL program, as educators advocate for the needs of multilingual learners. The outcome of this decision will not only shape the future of the ESOL program but also impact the educational experiences of students who rely on this vital support. As the board considers its next steps, the voices of those directly involved in the program highlight the importance of maintaining robust resources to ensure all students can thrive.