Think about a time when you experienced a peaceful outcome to a conversation because you were truly able to understand someone else. Such moments do happen as students from 64 different countries interact with the larger student body as participants with the English Language Learners (ELL) program at Fort Wayne Community Schools. Emily Schwartz Keirns, ELL manager with FWCS, told club members there are 76 different languages spoken in the school district and there has been a tenfold increase in ELL students from 1994 (241) to 2017 (2,700).

 

It is a matter of law that schools assess all students’ language proficiency and, based on that assessment, move them from an early knowledge of English to being academically fluent in English. It is also a matter of commitment, one that named FWCS as the first-ever recipient of the Indiana Title III Distinguished School District Award this past month. FWCS was selected to receive this distinction after demonstrating a commitment to English Learner success through strategic programming, rigorous instruction, inclusive school culture and beneficial partnerships with families and the community. Indiana’s Urban Schools Association extended its congratulations to FWCS noting that “Indiana’s urban schools offer Hoosier students a rich array of programs, services and opportunities.”

 

Understanding and the pursuit of peace can be nurtured through students’ exposure to and involvement with others from diverse cultural backgrounds. It is the same motivation with Rotary, as students learn a new language, discover another culture and truly become global citizens. Exchanges for students 15 to 19 years old are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries. Learn more!

 

 

 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email Rena Burden (Copy and Paste into your email). Add this to your calendars today - look forward to seeing you there!