There is the mentoring program, under which experienced teachers shepherd new ones. At Dallin, where the three receive mentoring, they gave particular praise first-grade teacher Lauren Jastremski, who had offered so much. There is Judi Bohn, partnership coordinator for the public schools. Each week I hear anecdotes about how children are coming home and speaking Spanish. It has generated so much positive energy for early grade parents and kids.
Planning is the key.
I know we have the support. Last week, the superintendent recommended adding one more Spanish teacher for next year. This was a wonderful example of a true partnership. The children of Arlington will benefit in many ways from learning to speak another language while they are so young. The after-school Spanish program has continued, with Foley and Cocconi involved.