Girsh pushes them to speak in English but some of them have yet to learn the alphabet. Second-grade teacher Cheryl Coutant has only five students who can read in English. The second-grade textbooks sit on the shelves because they are too difficult. On a visit to the school library, many of the students pick out books in Spanish. Another problem is that grades are down even though some teachers say students are doing better.
Teachers say that has demoralized some youngsters.
Luis David Castillo, a fifth-grader, is an average student but he sees himself making progress. Meanwhile, Spanish-speaking parents have difficulty communicating with teachers. They said they often don't realize homework has been assigned. Some have asked for Spanish translation. Although the shift to English has been difficult, parents were ready for a change.