At the beginning of the year, when we first met, they were silent. During identification testing, they stared up at me, and didn’t speak a word. Now, towards the end of this school year, I can hardly get them to stop talking (yes, in English). This is a short story of 2 of our EL (English Learners) kindergarteners here at Freedom Prep., Birmingham.
I have had the joy of experiencing this transformation! Through a lot of practice, patience and effort, on everyone’s part, they are learning and growing in their English every day. They have improved their lives on their journey to listening, speaking, reading and writing English.
At Freedom Prep., Birmingham, the role of the English as a Second Language teacher is to provide targeted support to our K-5 English Learners. This includes pull-out and push-in classroom support, focusing on explicit vocabulary instruction, visual aids, scaffolding, modifying speech, accommodations, and interactive experiences to promote more independent English skills for our students.
The most important part of our English Learners’ success comes from the collaboration with their teachers, administrators and students’ families. We all work together for this common goal, learning English. Building these relationships is vital.
While promoting a positive learning environment, our students are not only learning English, but life values. At Freedom Prep., excellence is in action.
Respect, responsibility, integrity, community, excellence: these are the core values the school is based upon.
Half of my school day, I work with EL (English Learners). The other half of my day, I teach 4th and 5th graders with Special Needs with IEPs (Individual Education Programs) My kids are amazing! The role of a Special Education teacher at Freedom Prep is to deliver specialized instruction, manage IEP compliance, promote academic and social growth and to collaborate with staff and parents to support diverse learning needs.
I have taught English as a second language and/or Special Education for 20 years. Before moving back to Alabama, I taught at a public charter school in Houston, TX for five years. That is where I first fell in love with public charter schools. I believe in the mission and vision of Freedom Prep. That is why I’m here. This is my place! My work is extremely important, especially with our diverse and growing community here in Birmingham. As our teacher chant says: change their lives, change the South and our movement is freedom.
I have had the privilege of seeing confidence grow in my students, especially with self-expression. I am in a community here at Freedom Prep. which promotes advocacy. My students love learning and will consistently push themselves towards the highest standards, despite their challenges.
Many of my students are part of the Music Club here at Freedom Prep. This is an extension of their English practice, expression and social skills. I am thankful to be one of the teachers for this club. This is one area of the arts that promotes positive and productive activities to help with their communication, well-being and creativity.
My students know that they are loved. I have a sign behind my work table that says you are loved, you matter, you can do anything, and I believe in you. Those are not just words on a sign, but a way of thinking, acting and living. My kids receive and respond to and with this mutual love and respect. Coming to school is a positive experience. The kids, teachers and administration want to be here at Freedom Prep. That says a lot about our school.
About me: I am a wife, mother of 2 grown, married children and have three grandchildren. I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family (including my 3 dogs), live theatre and photography. This summer, I am taking a cruise to Alaska with my husband, spending time with my grandchildren, planning an 80th birthday party for my mom and attending my high school class reunion. After that, I’ll be more than ready to start the new year at Freedom Prep., Birmingham.
