SBUnified
By Santa Barbara Unififed
San Marcos High School held classes for families whose students are improving their English (Emergent Multilingual Learners or EMLs).
The program, called “Un día a la vez,” provides families with leadership and success tools as they navigate the educational system in the United States.
Roughly 35 people attended each of the four sessions that were held from January through April 12.
Topics covered during the program included learning how to help students succeed in the United States and the educational system, programs and resources available at San Marcos, the paths available to students beyond high school, and the next steps for student success.
“I am extremely proud of our staff and parents for collaborating on such an important project. I’ve had the honor of sharing my story with the group but know that the real value of the program is in learning from one another,” said Dare Holdren, Principal.
The program was held under the leadership of the San Marcos EML Support team, which consists of College and Career Counselor Rosalba Gonzalez-Hill, Teacher Sarah Ahlers, Family Engagement Liaisons Eduardo Lara and Griselda Huerta-Hernandez, Counselor Cesar Rodriguez, and Assistant Principal Paige Dupont.
“We are proud of the work being done by San Marcos High School. As an immigrant who came to America as a student, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to move to a new country. It is essential that we continue to find ways to help make our EML students and families feel welcome and successful in our school system,” said Dr. Hilda Maldonado, Superintendent.
Buoyed by the success of the program, San Marcos looks to continue to expand it next year.
Sounds like a great program!