Author: Ted Hesson, Kristina Cooke and M.B.Pell

Making Progress In some American classrooms, teachers are facing challenges with the new dynamics, especially in accommodating immigrant students. Despite the strains, educators like Smith, a first-grade teacher in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, are finding ways to adapt. Smith paired Haitian pupils with more advanced English skills with beginners and used physical cues to aid learning. While the federal government only covers a small portion of newcomer educational services, teachers like Smith are navigating through the difficulties. With repetition and innovative teaching methods, progress is being made. One Haitian girl in Smith’s class went from speaking no English to receiving an award…