Reply to Why start a Spanish FLES program at a majority Hispanic school?

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Reply to "Why start a Spanish FLES program at a majority Hispanic school?"

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]As a bilingual teacher and parent, I can sadly report that many of the kids who speak a second language cannot read it or write it. That could be addressed through this program. Also, I don't know about FCPS, but in APS the FLES funding is also a way to lengthen the school day and end early release Wednesdays. Spanish instruction can also be accompanied by additional music or art in this program, depends.[/quote]

OP here.  The day is not being extended and the kids still have early release on Monday.  According to the letter that came home, there will be no homework but kids will keep a "portfolio" of what's done in the twice weekly sessions.  At our school, almost 33% of the kids are Limited English Proficiency.  It's a majority Hispanic school but not all of those who are LEP are Spanish speakers.  I suppose if an additional language had to be introduced, Spanish would be the one that best the student population.

But, I was sorry to see in the school board notes (provided in the link posted by a PP) that "[i]The expansion of Foreign Language in the Elementary 
Schools (FLES) to eight new sites requires one fewer teacher position based on the student enrollment of the selected schools. The change in position count results in the savings of $75,197[/i]. "  We're happy with the school but the kids have a lot of academic/economic challenges and it seems FLES comes at a high price - one less teacher and less time in the day for core curriculum.  I don't know enough to say if it's worth it but you've got to question whether resources are being used in the right areas.  FCPS should provide some additional context to their statements about the benefits of learning a foreign language.  What if the language being targeted isn't a 'foreign' language to you?  What if it's your third langague?  Would it be better make sure every kid has breakfast and more movement opportunitites?  I don't know.[/quote]

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