Communication is KEY!
As another school year has begun, I wanted to share an article that has reminded me of why parent/guardian communication is key. During a time when we can get caught up in all the chaos of a new school year and the stressors it can create, we need to remember our students’ parents and guardians go through this as well. Below are just a few of the ideas presented in the article. Read it in its entirety to help you get your school year started on the right track.
- Ensure that families know how to contact you and the school.
- Find out how families prefer to communicate.
- Find out when they prefer to communicate.
- Identify your translation options.
- Identify information and updates your families will need to know.
Shared by Luigina Finneran, Bilingual/ESL Middle School 6-8 Representative
NJTESOL/NJBE has so many amazing teachers throughout our state that it would be fitting to highlight some of them. Nominees could be colleagues who are available to answer questions about ELLs or the Bilingual Education code; educators who support students and their families beyond the classroom with projects, college applications, and extracurricular activities; someone who joins committees in support of ELLS or to implement positive change for the community. The nominee must be a member of NJTESOL/NJBE. 
Najarro observed that the consequences of false political rhetoric against immigrants have become evident after the presidential debate on September 10th. The misinformation about Haitian immigrants stealing and eating pets has resulted in bomb threats against schools and government buildings in Springfield City, Ohio, requiring the protection of state troopers and making children and their families feel unsafe.
