Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/250321
Learning Best Practice Some don't understand the Roman alphabet or phonemic awareness. Others have huge gaps in their education and cannot comprehend simple math or science. Interestingly, most are technologically savvy and enjoy social networking. In addition to adjusting to a new culture, students must adjust to cultural differences with each other. Some have never attended class with students of the opposite sex and don't realize boys and girls can have platonic friendships. Some exhibit behaviors that are acceptable in their own culture, but may be considered sexual harassment in the U.S. Staff are often called upon to set things straight. "They are not just learning how to be American," says Bird. "They are learning to live in a diverse country. They are learning how to be tolerant and accept each other's cultures. We have to teach some of them how to be empathetic. They must learn that everyone has the freedom to be different. Many come from places where everybody looks the same and is supposed to think the same — or they are persecuted for it." As students let down their guard, they share stories about traumatizing events. One student from Mexico was kidnapped by a drug cartel member who held an AK-47 to his head. Female students crossing the Mexican border confide they have been sexually abused by "coyotes" (smugglers). One student from the Middle East saw his girlfriend get into a car that exploded before his eyes. Another says his father played dead so he wouldn't be shot by terrorists. Students raise response cards to answer a question in Amelia Herrera-Evans' class (pictured above). Graduation rates have risen dramatically, and most graduates enroll in Modesto Junior College. 46 Educator 02 Feb 2014 v2.1 int.indd 46 Students may not have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, but 85 percent of LI students probably have some form of PTSD, say staff, who refer their families to social service agencies and counselors that can provide psychological help. However, families often don't take advantage of these opportunities, since mental health counseling is frowned upon in many cultures. "We give them the opportunity to talk or write about their experiences and express what they have been through, which can be unofficial therapy," says Bird. "We ask them to use their experiences as a vehicle of empowerment — and to honor their families for the sacrifices they've made, by plugging into education and seizing the opportunity given to them." A sense of belonging "It's like family," says Imraz Gill, a student who arrived from India a year ago. "Everybody is learning English. We can have conversations and learn from each other." The majority of students feel a sense of family in the LI, says Herrera-Evans. "They sense our love for them and how much we want them to succeed. They know we are there for them. I love my job. Teachers here find endless rewards on a daily basis." Students may have diverse backgrounds and languages, but share a common bond — a strong desire to succeed academically and build a better life in America. Franklin Rodas, who arrived six months ago from El Salvador, believes he's on the path to success. "I have learned a lot at the Language Institute. And I will learn more." Nahreen Sampour, who missed seven years of school, is looking forward, not backward. "I want to learn," she says. "I want to be something in the future." FE B RUARY 20 14 1/27/14 3:52 PM