July 23, 2024, Lancaster ISD/Lancaster, TX Lancaster ISD -- strives to consistently provide the necessary tools to prepare the next generation of scholars through summer programs. Most recently, the district has implemented the Summer Newcomer Program and Summer Secondary Program where students learn language skills to help them prepare for life beyond the classroom.
The Newcomer Program, hosted at Houston Elementary, is for students with limited English proficiencies. This summer learning program is part of Lancaster ISD’s Emergent Bilingual Program and follows the One-Way Dual Language Program framework.
The One-Way Dual Language Program is an educational approach in which students learn two languages, English and Spanish, through an instructional setting that integrates subject content presented in both languages. The program uses instructional approaches designed to meet the needs of Limited English Proficient students by promoting bilingualism, biliteracy, cross-cultural awareness, and high academic achievement.
Bilingual education is offered at Houston Elementary for grades Kindergarten through 5th grade.
Ana Contreras, Bilingual Teacher at Houston Elementary School, is highly dedicated to the growth of her students. Contreras uses this opportunity to work with students in small groups.
“It’s my goal is for them to learn and try to be more on track by the time they enter Kindergarten,” said Contreras.
Lancaster ISD intern, Hugo Sierra, had the opportunity to give back to those before him through the Bilingual Program.”[This is] more about giving back and helping students of the next generation. Teachers take time with students and really care about what they do,” Huego shared. He is excited to finish the summer with this class and hopes to continue to pour into others and give students better opportunities that might not have been previously afforded.
Lancaster ISD hopes that by providing year-round support and resources, students will continue to achieve throughout their academic journey.
