At Gabrielino High School, the English Language Development (ELD) program is a supportive space where students can improve their English skills while feeling comfortable and accepted. Students in Ms. Tien and Ms. Lydon’s classes have shared their experiences, highlighting the challenges they have faced and the improvements they have made in the program.
The ELD program at Gabrielino plays an important role in supporting students in improving their English. With supportive teachers and lessons designed just for them, students build the confidence to succeed in their classes.
ELD also creates a friendly environment where students can connect with their classmates who share similar experiences. As they learn together, they form friendships, support each other, and develop their skills in English, making their learning experience all the more positive.
Sophomore Hugo Liang, a student in Tien’s ELD class, appreciates the relaxed atmosphere of the class. “I feel comfortable because there is no homework, no handwriting, and it’s relaxed,” Liang shared. English in ELD daily helps Liang improve his language skills. “I have a regular English class, but sometimes it’s hard for me, so I learn from the ELD class and use it in English,” Liang added
Sophomore Megan Kantanawat enjoys being in a class with students who share similar experiences.
Kantanawat also appreciates the diversity in her ELD classroom, where students come from different backgrounds and speak a variety of languages. She believes that this mix of cultures helps her and her classmates learn from one another, not just about school subjects but also about each other’s lives. This environment makes her feel more connected and supported as she continues to improve her English skills.
“It’s very good to be in there because I can be around people who have experiences like mine and face the same language barriers,” said Kantanawat. Her biggest challenge is understanding classwork, but she finds comfort in knowing her teacher is always there to help.
Kantanawat is part of a growing number of students who are learning English as their second language. Kantanawat, like many others, works hard to keep up with her studies while improving her language skills. The support of her classmates and teachers plays a big role in helping her feel more confident. She feels that being in an environment with others who understand the challenges of learning a new language makes her school experience better.
“My biggest challenge is my classwork because I cannot understand much, but I still have my teacher to help me,” Kantanawat added.
Kantanawat believes ELD has helped her understand English better and feel more comfortable sharing her thoughts. “It’s a place where we can talk about our problems and help each other,” she added.
Sophomore Shijie Li, from Lydon’s ELD class, believes that practicing English in ELD has helped him socially. He recommends that other students stay focused and study hard, and believes that practicing English helps him socially.
“I always don’t understand English, so I need to translate my work,” Li stated.“ELD helps me talk to people I don’t know more easily,”Li added. Li finds that the skills he’s learned in ELD help him not only in the classroom but outside of it as well. Whether he’s talking to friends or meeting new people, the language practice from ELD gives him more confidence to engage in conversations. Li believes that the more he practices, the easier it becomes to understand and speak English.
The ELD program at Gabrielino gives students a space to improve their English while feeling supported by their teachers and classmates. Students not only work on their language skills but also gain confidence in both school and social settings. The program allows students to have the opportunity to bond over similar challenges, creating a more encouraging environment and enhanced learning experience.
