English Language Learners mentoring program a huge success

This year’s EL mentors are pictured with Spanish teacher Bridgett Anderson,. From left, Josiel Martinez Mejia, Ms. Anderson, Gustavo Gutierrez Castro, Christopher Galindo Macias, Alexander Soto Solis, and Vivianna García.

A group of Baker English Language Learners have stepped into leadership roles, mentoring Strode students in a program that is one our district’s great success stories – building confidence, community, and connection.

Through the EL Mentoring Program, Baker 6th graders walk to Strode to support and mentor EL students in Kindergarten through 2nd grade. The district wide initiative aims to motivate current EL students to desire to excel in English.

The mentor group includes 6th graders who are designated RFEP — Reclassified Fluent English Proficient. These students have exited the EL program but are still monitored for four years.

“The idea is to give the younger students a real-life example of what’s possible,” says Baker teacher Bridgett Anderson. “Our RFEP students are able to provide a positive, real-life example that you can become fluent in English if you’re willing to work hard, pay attention and have a willingness to learn.”

Anderson says the arrangement benefits both groups. The RFEP students feel empowered by helping others, and the younger students enjoy working with older students who can support them in both English and Spanish.

“It’s been rewarding for everyone involved,” she said. “The students are learning from each other, and that’s powerful.”