Philadelphia: Ensuring that language barriers don't interfere for parents

[Francis Hult]

The Notebook

 

Ensuring that language barriers don't interfere for parents

 

Erin Richburg, a K-2 writing teacher at the Folk Arts-Cultural Treasures Charter School (FACTS), recalls one professional development meeting that left a lasting impression on her and her colleagues.

 

They were covering the subject of English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction-but the specialist was intentionally only speaking in German. The teachers had no idea what was going on.

 

This, of course, is what many FACTS students and their families experience every day.

 

"Remembering that perspective is important," Richburg said.

 

FACTS, located in Chinatown, emphasizes cultural awareness and linguistic diversity both in its curriculum and in its daily operations. Since opening in 2005, the school has developed a reputation among immigrant families as a welcoming place not only for students, but also for their families and the surrounding community.

 

Full story:

http://www.thenotebook.org/fall-2008/0827/facts-ensuring-language-barriers-don%E2%80%99t-interfere-parents

 

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