“Inclusion is not bringing people into what already exists; it is making a new space, a better space for everyone.” - George Dei, Professor, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education

 

Engaging with families of students who are learning English is a powerful lever for fostering academic success and overall student well-being. By establishing strong communication channels and building collaborative relationships with families, educators gain valuable insights into the cultural backgrounds, linguistic needs, and strengths of students and their families. Partnering with families through school activities, providing resources in their home language, and offering support for navigating the education system empowers both students and their families. Effective family-school partnership bridges the gap between home and school, creating a more cohesive educational experience for students. When families feel valued and included by school personnel, they are more likely to be actively involved and invested in their children’s academic success. Supporting and partnering with families of students in English Learner programs can help to break down language and cultural barriers, improve student outcomes, and create a positive and inclusive school community.

 

Tips for Partnering with Multilingual Families

The following strategies offer specific opportunities for educators to build stronger partnerships with parents and families of students who are multilingual and students who are enrolled in English Language programs.

1. Establish Strong Communication Channels.

2. Build a school environment that welcomes and respects families.

3. Embrace the linguistic and cultural diversity of families.

4. Offer families support to learn about important topics to navigate the school system.

For more information, CLICK HERE

Resource: Partnering with Families, Multilingual Research Belief

 

Family Roadmap for English Learners

The Family Roadmap from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce and the Center on Education and Training for Employment at The Ohio State University will include resources designed to assist family engagement with schools and support the education of their children. All resources will be available in Arabic, Dari, Nepali, Spanish, Somali, Swahili, and Ukrainian. Topics covered include enrollment, education rights, attendance, and mental health.

Resource: Family Roadmap

 

A Guide for Engaging ELL Families: Twenty Strategies for School Leaders

This guide from Colorín Colorado includes twenty strategies that school leaders and educators can use to support and partner with multilingual families and learners. Colorín Colorado provides free research-based information, activities, and advice to schools, families, and communities.

Resource: Engaging ELL Families Guide

 

Supporting EL & Immigrant Students & Families: It's About More than Just Language

This recorded webinar from Immigrant Connections discusses strategies to support multilingual learners beyond language supports. The webinar covers basic information about the backgrounds of immigrant students and families in the U.S. and discusses four core stressors of immigrant children and families.

Resource: Immigrant Connections Webinar

 

The Role of Welcome Centers in Supporting English Learners

The Connecticut State Department of Education shares this webinar on welcoming centers and welcoming strategies for students and families. Using local school district data and examples, a panel of educators share their experience and work with multilingual learners and families.

Resource: CSDE Webinar

 

Learning Language Every Day: Activities for Families

This resource includes activities available in multiple languages for families to start conversations with their children about their family, what they like to play, how they feel, and much more. Educators can use these resources to learn more about their students and their families.

Resource: Learning Language Every Day