By Faith Gallishaw ’25
There has been an increase in Spanish-speaking students at DHS this year. New students are from different countries such as Guatemala, and Columbia. John Stanley teaches English language learner (ELL) students, and co-teaches in English classes to offer these students support.
Stanley works with different Spanish speaking students and helps them with English or translation in general. This is his third year teaching at Derby High School and he has worked with many students over the years he’s been working as an ELL teacher. Stanley says, “For ELL specifically the population grew a little bit as far as ELL students, but not as much as you think.”
Most of the new students that arrived at DHS spoke little to no English, so other students would often show them around and speak to them in their native language. As the days went by the increase became greater and greater. “Showing around new students everyday has been overwhelming. Everyday there was a new student.” Krystal Torres ‘25 states her opinion on the increase of diverse students.
Some of the students may have trouble learning a new language, but with the help of peers and students, learning English may be easier for them. Although it is hard adapting, they enjoy going to DHS despite the language barrier. “I think it’s good, I like it, it’s fun sometimes.” Alexandra Romero ‘28 shares her experience on what it is like being a new student at DHS. Romero also shares how it is to adapt to learning a new language, “I don’t have that many friends here who are bilingual, but we help each other a lot. Sometimes it’s not easy.”
Learning a new language and moving to a new country where no one knows you is tough, but with the help of peers, teachers, and trusted adults hopefully it’s easier for students.
The Raider Press 