As we welcome multicultural families into our communities and their children into our schools, it is becoming critical for school districts across the country to have teachers who are qualified to teach English as a New Language while navigating their school’s curriculum expectations.
In the Niagara Falls City School District, Niagara University graduates have much of the responsibility for teaching these children, as seven of the district’s nine English as a New Language teachers are alumni of the College of Education’s Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages program.
“NU TESOL students value diversity and this prepares them to interact more effectively with the changing demographic of the EL population in Niagara Falls,” said Marcia Capone, administrator for assessment/CIO in the NFCSD. She noted that because Niagara University professors remain involved in the professional lives of their graduates, the ENL teachers are encouraged to continue their informal and formal professional development throughout their careers.
“It is this sense of community and unity that I really appreciate,” said Mallory Leo, who works with kindergarten and first grade students at Henry J. Kalfas Elementary School. “It is nice to know that even when you are out of the TESOL program, that there are lifelong connections you will call upon within your career.”
Through coursework and a variety of field placements, Niagara’s TESOL teacher candidates gain knowledge of the theories, strategies, and methodologies in teaching English language learners, acquire awareness and understanding of the sociocultural and sociolinguistic issues that impact the acquisition of English as an additional language, and facilitate the teaching/learning process for students as they develop skills in a new language.
The NFCSD’s ENL department hosts a variety of activities for students and families which are supported by Niagara University, Capone said. Some of those activities include a “Walk the World” Cultural Fair, a summer ENL camp for elementary ELLs, adult ENL classes, and a parent orientation night.
The EL teachers’ involvement is motivated by their sincere appreciation for the students with whom they work.
Marissa Rogers, who has been with the district for nine years and currently works with third and fourth grade students at GJ Mann Elementary School, says she enjoys learning from her ELLs and creating relationships that last long after the school year has ended.
“They have been through situations in their lives that I could never imagine, and yet here they are, ready and willing to learn,” she said. “They love to share their language, food, and culture. They teach me as much as I teach them. I love forming the bonds with them and seeing the bonds they form with each other, even though there are language barriers.”
Kaitlyn Grande, who teaches seventh and eighth grade ELLs at LaSalle Preparatory School, agrees.
“I am constantly learning something new,” she said. “The world of TESOL is extremely unique. You get to explore other worlds, cultures, and languages every day without leaving your area, school, or town. I am fortunate to get to work with diverse students who teach me new things about other cultures every single day. ELL students have a strong desire and willingness to learn and grow and it is remarkable to see their language progress in such a short amount of time. It gives you a sense of achievement, as a teacher, that you play such an integral part in their language progression.”
“Niagara University’s commitment to training future ENL teachers to effectively engage with linguistically and culturally diverse students and families not only strengthens the educational experience for students, but also allows for the institution’s Vincentian mission of inclusivity and service, which was instilled in our teacher candidates during their time at Niagara, to be carried out for years to come,” said Dr. Elizabeth Falzone, assistant professor of education and TESOL program coordinator.
