Support from mainstream colleagues

[eslwendy]

I was just talking to a fellow ESL colleague, and we were discussing how nice it would be to get more of the mainstream teachers of our ELLs on board with our efforts. The brief 40 min. pull out sessions we get each day aren't always enough. We are often met with dismissiveness when we make suggestions of some modifications that would be helpful for the student when extra help isn't available. I thought we were all on the same side as wanting the best success for our students. I'm not saying it's everyone; there are some very accomodating teachers out there (my friend is fortunate to have some input into classroom placement and there are certain teachers that are always cooperative). I really think some workshops on ESL issues could be beneficial to all staff.

[mlordon]

I agree that some mainstream classroom teachers just don't get it. Use the ones that do to help you get to the others. Design some professional development techniques for helping your students and ask the teachers that "get it" to help you present it at a faculty meeting or other appropriate time and place. Roll playing can be the most interesting way to get your point across. Pick two of your most important points and do them.

I have also compiled a binder of modified tests/homework/worksheets and let other teachers know it is in the faculty library and can just be borrowed. A lot of teachers will use modifications if they don't have to invent them by themselves.

Always work on getting others to see your successes and they will be more apt to try what you suggest. Good luck.

[sunflower03]

I am completely on board with your concerns. Many mainstream teachers are bogged down with all of the requirements the district asks of them, that ELL's often fall by the waste side. The problem, I believe is that there is no law protecting ELL's as there is for Special Ed. students. With that said, many teachers just simply dismiss ELL's and state that they do not have time to work with them because they have to work with the special ed. students. It has been a huge challenge for me and this year the other ELL teacher and I are presenting a proposal to pilot a co-teaching model where each of us will be in a classroom all day, co-teaching with the mainstream teacher. We will develop lessons, activities and her classroom will now by "our" classroom. We hope to get the piolet approved!! Best of luck to you!