From the beginning of the 2023 school year to fall break of the same year, the number of EL students at Oxford High School doubled to 68 students. EL is a term that describes students who are learning the English language, whether that be as a second or even a third language. It can also describe students who are improving their English skills.
When students register for school they can mark non-English speaking or that another language is spoken at home. Being an EL student does not mean that the student speaks no English. After informing the district of their knowledge of the English language, they are tested to see what their level is and a learning plan is created from there.
“They go through a screening process after registration, and those students become our kids, Mr. Winnick and my students, and we try to help them with their English skills or to just learn English,” Tuesday Arizaga, EL and Spanish II teacher, said.
EL students are required to complete the standard requirements to receive a diploma and graduate, but the order and speed in which they achieve these credits differs based on their background knowledge of English before coming to Oxford High School. The EL students have to prove that they are working towards a diploma.
“We try to place students in classes that are not challenging the very first semester or sometimes a year,” Charlie Winnick, EL and French teacher, said. “We try to put them in EL courses, drug education, safety education, health, P.E., and art so that they can develop English skills while progressing through the school system.”
EL students have their own classes where they learn beginner English instruction called sheltered classes. They are also enrolled in traditional courses filled with fluent English speakers which is essential for their learning process.
“It is important for them to have exposure to English outside of EL,” Arizaga said. “I know that our students that have made friendships and have been involved in clubs and other things outside of our normal EL population are the students that pick up English much faster.”
Logan Dodson, math teacher and assistant football coach, has made a special impact on EL students at Oxford High School. EL students enjoy attending his class and are excited to learn when its time for Dodson’s class.
“The most important thing is to build a relationship with that student and make them comfortable and want to take chances in their communication and educational journey,” Dodson said. “Show them that you care about who they are as a person.”
Dodson’s impact in the classroom has led to huge accomplishments for EL students, both academic and personal accomplishments. One particular example of this is an EL student who came into the district speaking no English took Dodson’s class and passed his Algebra I state test.
“I just want every student at OHS to feel welcome and safe when they enter my classroom regardless of what their backgrounds are,” Dodson said. “The math knowledge and understanding will take care of itself if everyone is feeling welcomed and secure.”
According to Winnick and Arizaga, EL teachers do not simply teach the English language. A big part of the job is providing support and guidance for EL students’ futures.
“We push our students to get involved in CTE programs, which we are very fortunate to have, because those classes will better prepare them for real life situations,” Winnick said. “Whether we’re trying to prepare them for a traditional diploma or entering the workforce we strive to guide them through anything as well as provide general support.”
