EMCSD Launches Newcomer Program
By: Gabriela Angel
In an effort to support the diverse needs of its students, El Monte City School District has introduced a “newcomer” program. EMCSD’s K-8 newcomer program is designed to support students who have been in the country for two years or less and may have limited English proficiency. This initiative aims to provide these students with the resources and support they need to thrive both academically and socially.
“The main goal of this program is to inspire students and set them on a path to success for the upcoming school year, " said Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) Indra Arellano. EMCSD is committed to ensuring that students have an enjoyable summer and enriching summer experience where they are able to explore new concepts, work with peers, and engage in real-life experiences.
The district’s Summer Enrichment Program was an ideal time to introduce the newcomer program as it ensures that students are provided with additional language support and help to prepare for the upcoming school year without feeling overwhelmed. Delving into various math, reading, and science concepts also provides students with the opportunity to become more familiar with the curriculum and concepts that will be introduced within the school year. Ms. Arellano explained, “Our goal is not only to introduce these subjects but also to help students become confident in understanding and using the language associated with them.”
A few challenges when creating specific programming and curriculum for the EMCSD newcomers included not knowing the level of English proficiency students would have coming in and planning what the day would look like for each grade level. “Given the unknowns, it was challenging to plan something that would address each student’s individual needs,” explained TOSA Ms. Leticia Arreola. “We worked hard to provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their knowledge and find ways to build on what they already know,” said TOSA Alejandra Hoff. “We had to select the content and resources that would help build a meaningful and successful program," Ms. Arellano added.
Students were celebrated throughout the program. “It was important to honor and celebrate what is familiar to them. They were able to see themselves in books we read and also see their native language printed on the pages of books that were being read aloud by their teacher," said Ms. Hoff. Overall, students had an extremely positive experience. “They felt safe, seen, and heard. Students were able to express themselves in their native language and build their English language skills through collaboration and teacher support,” said Ms. Arellano.
This program is designed to not only support students but their families as well. By building language skills, the program makes learning content more accessible, reducing frustration and learning anxiety for students. Additionally, “The building of language skills also helps with communication which supports the whole family,” explained Ms. Arellano.
Overall, the newcomer program highlights El Monte City School District’s commitment to inclusivity and support and helps ensure that every student can succeed.