MANSFIELD — Superintendent Teresa Murphy is pleased to share that Mansfield Public Schools recently hosted a successful English Learner Family Night.
English Learner Family Night was held on Thursday, April 27 at the Mansfield Public Library. The event served as an opportunity for Mansfield families to meet their children’s English Second Language (ESL) teachers and learn more about the resources that Mansfield Public Library offers.
Interpreters were also available at the event for Portuguese, Arabic, Spanish and Chinese (Mandarin) speaking families.
The event began with opening remarks from Mansfield High School English Learner (EL) Teacher Nicole Lynch and an introduction to Mansfield Public Schools ESL teachers and administrators. Grade 3-5 EL Teacher Mark Krikorian, Grade 6-8 EL Teacher Elsbeth Finucane-Albert, Grade K-5 EL Teacher Susan England and Mansfield High School Assistant Principal Ellie Noto were also in attendance.
During introductions, presenters acknowledged the challenges that ESL students and their families often face when adapting to a new country and culture, and informed families of the support systems in place.
‘We believe that every student, regardless of their language background, deserves a quality education that will enable them to succeed,” said ESL teacher Nicole Lynch.
Attendees were provided with information about each of Mansfield’s support services, including translation and interpretation services to help parents and students better communicate with teachers and school staff.
Families also received welcome packets from the library with information about the resources available through the library and were given the opportunity to sign up for their own library cards.
“We recognize the value of diversity in our schools and classrooms,” said Superintendent Murphy. “Our ESL students bring a unique perspective and cultural background that enriches our school community and we encourage all of our students to embrace their differences and to learn from one another.”
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