Lucero Denisse Valderrama published her first collection of poems in 2020. Titled Soy Mujer, the poems pulled from all of her experiences, as an immigrant, a woman, a sister, and more. She was surprised and humbled when her 6th grade ELA students begged her to read it to them!
Language has such beauty and power. As a sixth grade English Language Arts teacher, I work to offer the power of words and identity to my students, so they can control their own narratives, write their own translations, and advocate for themselves.
For recent immigrants, school is more than a place to learn a new language and culture—it’s a place to forge a community that nurtures the rich and unique identity of each student.
To me, the most important thing is to help students feel safe and respected inside this new country. I want them to understand the U.S. culture, and to also be themselves—not to be afraid or to shed themselves. To keep the riches that they bring.
Concepción Camargo shares what made her first year as a bilingual educator meaningful and rewarding.
"It’s nice to look like my students and come from the same culture and speak the same language...just to let them know, 'I get what you’re going through, but it’s going to be okay.'"
When you're a role model, you might make mistakes, but you can still help your students overcome obstacles.
Classes for English language learners offer more than language support—they build confidence, resilience and opportunity.
"Because I found so much support in my ELL teachers, I realized the support a good teacher can have. They made a huge impact on me and other students, and for that reason I decided to become a teacher and help students myself."
At Naropa University, anti-racism and mindfulness are pillars of the teacher preparation program.
"Through culturally responsive teaching practices, I built authentic relationships with students and families, and I was challenged by facilitating discussions about racism."
Principal Fabricio Velez shares his unlikely story as an classically-trained dancer from Ecuador who became a champion for English language learner students.
I had no prior training other than my training as an actor. I think that served me well.
Subscribe for more articles, events and opportunities.
