Nazarenus told the board that LEP students who participate in such programs score far higher in English reading on standardized tests. She told the board that the success of the program depends on parents seeing the ability to speak more than one language as a strength in today's world, rather than a weakness. Board members asked Nazarenus questions about cost, especially with the district adopting a policy of no new programs or staff for the next couple of years. Nazarenus said starting bilingual programs in two schools would take longer than that temporary moratorium. The biggest problem in starting the program would be staffing, she said.
Bilingual teachers are in short supply.
Perhaps ESL paraeducators and ESL teachers already on staff could take additional courses to become certified bilingual educators. Nazarenus provided three estimated costs associated with a content-based ESL program. Nazarenus said the district has been aggressive in keeping up with its LEP staffing needs. That has allowed the district to provide services to its LEP students but not optimal services. Post your thoughts in The Public Forum.