posted by:
Mashburn, Noelle B - MNPS at Mar 07, 2011 11:13:00 AM
Each year thousands of students come to Nashville from all over the world – Myanmar, Congo, Sudan, Thailand, Brazil, Mexico, and the list goes on. Many have never stepped foot inside a classroom or seen running water. Some have received formal education in their native country, but arrive with no knowledge of the English language. These challenges don’t discourage the employees in Metro Schools English Learners Office. They embrace every individual -- accommodating languages, helping families get up-to-date immunizations, and simply finding ways to overcome language and cultural barriers. But that’s not all they do. Inside the center operates an International Newcomers Academy, a small school that accommodates 30 – 40 students who need additional support as they transition into their new lives. Students learn the foundations of each subject, take field trips, and participate in activities designed to acclimate them to the American culture. The EL Office and International Newcomers Academy are unique gems hidden inside one of the state’s largest public education systems. The work they do is remarkable, as are the families they serve. We invite you to step inside the colorful world and see for yourself how special this center is.
