Co-teaching Improves Language Learning for Immigrant Students in Sioux Falls – Sioux Falls Live

SIOUX FALLS — A new method of teaching English to the 10 percent of students in the Sioux Falls School District who speak other languages ​​will be expanded to additional schools this fall.

English Language Arts Coordinator Sara Klaahsen recently informed the School Board that a pilot program using a co-teaching and co-planning model has shown “statistically significant” improvements across multiple grade levels, and they plan to expand the initiative to other schools.

This past school year, Anne Sullivan, Laura B. Anthony and Oscar Howe elementary schools, as well as Ben Reifel Middle School and Washington High School, introduced a new teaching method for mainstream teachers and English instructors.

“With our data and feedback pointing in the right direction, we plan to expand our pilot program,” Klaahsen said.

This fall, expanded pilot classes will be offered at elementary schools in Cleveland, Hayward and Rosa Parks, as well as George McGovern Middle School and Jefferson High School.

The move to co-teaching and co-planning comes after research on evidence-based practices in teaching English language learners, as the district follows federal guidelines

A total of 2,982 students participated in the English language program last winter, and by the last day of classes, that number had increased to 3,027. Total enrollment in Sioux Falls Public Schools is about 24,000.

The aim of the programme is to equip students with language skills so that they can participate in the basic curriculum and integrate with other students.

To graduate from the program, students must demonstrate proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English. They take state and federal assessments.

Klaahsen said 234 students took advantage of the program last school year, an improvement over the previous year.

Board member Marc Murren asked if there are enough teachers in the program, as he feels the program has struggled in the past.

“After talking to my colleagues at home and around the country, I am happy that I now only have one vacancy,” Klaahsen said.

Board member Nan Baker said that whether immigrant students start in kindergarten or ninth grade, giving them “a strong start can benefit their long-term well-being.”

Klaahsen said the five most commonly spoken languages ​​on the show are Spanish, Swahili (from several Central African countries), Nepali, Amharic (from Ethiopia) and Kunama (from Eritrea, which borders Ethiopia).