Transforming bilingual education in Garland ISD, the district announced a new direction for its English Language Learners Department (ELL) during the July 19 board meeting. Bilingual LEADS, which stands for language education academic development system, aims to empower bilingual students to excel as bi-literate, bicultural, future-ready citizens. The program focuses on a late-exit model, educating students in their native language so they progress academically while acquiring English.
Starting elementary with a majority of instruction in Spanish, late-exit bilingual classes gradually increase English instruction by grade levels. When students are ready to transition to general education classes, they not only match their peers academically, but also benefit from knowing two languages. GISD’s ELL population has grown from more than 3,500 in 1996 to nearly 15,000 in 2016, and Director Zaida Saldivar hopes Bilingual LEADS will provide a consistent support for students throughout their education.
“We noticed varied bilingual approaches across campuses, as well as a growing achievement gap between English Language Learners and their peers,” she explained. “This program gives us a proven model to implement districtwide, strengthening both students and teachers.”
Roach Elementary School provides an example of late-exit bilingual success. Students consistently perform well on state assessments, and the campus has received multiple national Blue Ribbon School awards.
During Tuesday’s meeting, the board also awarded a plaque to Secretary Larry Glick to commemorate his new status as a Master Trustee. Glick marks the third member of GISD’s board to earn this distinction through the Leadership TASB program, which works to discover solutions for today’s public education challenges and how to address ones the future will bring. President Linda Griffin and Trustee Rick Lambert also share this honor.
A resolution adopted by the board could create new partnerships with elected officials across the state. GISD will participate in School Priority Month this October, inviting mayors, council members, legislators, etc., to tour the district, visit schools and meet with students and staff.
GISD is looking to create partnerships with local businesses as well. The district recently held a Community Outreach event for its Bond 2014 program, providing information about upcoming bids and how to submit proposals. Project updates and available opportunities can be found at www.garlandisdbond.com.
Information provided by Garland ISD.