(The first meeting of Secondary Newcomer Network took place in the Fall of 2020. Previously, this workshop was titled Getting Secondary Newcomer ELs to Graduation)
Each meeting will feature guest presenters and networking activities pertaining to support for Newcomer ELs in secondary schools. For former participants, this new format may be best viewed as a recurring meeting each semester. However, there are no prerequisites, the meetings are not sequential and all campus stakeholders are welcome.
A shared drive online will be created for the Secondary Newcomer Network (SNN) to provide a place for sharing and collaboration, as well as an archive for information shared during our meetings.
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Newcomer ELs face many challenges in their first years of education in US schools.
Maybe none have it harder than those arriving as high school students. Unlike younger Newcomer ELs who can develop language and content knowledge over time, those aged 15-18 don't have a moment to lose. In just a few short years, Newcomers ELs are expected to learn to listen, speak, read and write in English, acquire at least 22 high school credits AND pass the 5 necessary STAAR EOCs.
If we want our Newcomer ELs to feel safe, supported and successful, it requires the shared vision of the school and community. As administrators, counselors, registrars and teachers, it is our responsibility to support and guide them along this challenging path to graduation.
In this training we will attempt to address some of these items, including but not limited to:
- Navigating credit acquisition
- Course scheduling
- Development of cultural proficiency
- Family/community supports