I am writing in regards to Increase funding for Baltimore County Public School's English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program.
The American dream is alive and well. I see the American dream in progress on a daily basis when I work as an elementary ESOL teacher in Baltimore County Public Schools. As an ESOL teacher, I help children acquire English language skills. I have been an ESOL teacher in Baltimore County for nine years and I have also taught adult community ESOL classes through Community Colleges of Baltimore County for many years.
Our great country allows people the opportunity to prosper and succeed. With hard work and many sacrifices, parents can provide their children with opportunities that they did not have themselves. Parents can give their children the chance for upward social mobility, higher education and a safe and happy life regardless of the situation in which their children were born. It's common for me to talk with ESOL parents who are working two jobs, attending English classes at night and trying to help their children with homework all with a smile of gratitude for the opportunities they have.
American public schools, unlike schools in many other countries, accept and educate all students. Accepting, educating, supporting ALL children regardless of their race, socio-economic status, IQ, physical or mental impairments or behavioral challenges represents the values that are steeped in the documents of our Founding Fathers. Every day I encounter ESOL families that have strong family values, close ties to religion, a strong work ethic and a high regard for education.
Our ESOL families face many barriers that they never complain about because simply having the opportunity to achieve the American dream is appreciated. ESOL families are grateful for our world-class education system and trust schools completely with their children. Because of this trust and gratitude, parents do not speak out and voice concerns.
Out of the 100 ESOL students that I service in my elementary school this year, 56 were born in the United States and are citizens, but speak a language other than English in the home.
Dr. Dallas Dance, the Superintendent of Baltimore County Public Schools, requested 31 additional ESOL teachers for next year in his budget which would bring teacher student ratio from one teacher for every 75 students to one teacher for every 44 students; however, only six additional positions were approved. Currently, some students only receive ESOL services 30 minutes per week. Let's do what is best for our children who are working hard to achieve the American dream.
Katie Hess, ESOL Teacher
Pleasant Plains Elementary School