School notes 2-1-25

By Plainsman Staff
Posted 2/1/25

Notes covering Middle School ESL and High School PE

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School notes 2-1-25

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Huron Middle School ESL
In an increasingly interconnected world, the role of English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers has never been more vital. Whether we are teaching students in a small classroom or connecting with learners across the globe, ESL educators are the bridges that link individuals to opportunities, understanding, and connection.

Language is more than a means of communication; it is a gateway to new opportunities. For non-native English speakers, learning English can open doors to better education, career prospects, and global citizenship. ESL teachers empower students to find their voices in an unfamiliar language, equipping them with tools that transcend the classroom.

As an ESL teacher, I have witnessed students’ progress from hesitant speakers to confident communicators. One of the most rewarding moments is seeing a student use a new phrase or construct a sentence they once found intimidating. These milestones are more than linguistic achievements; they are leaps toward independence and self-assurance.

Teaching ESL is not without its challenges. Students come from diverse cultural, educational, and linguistic backgrounds. They often face hurdles such as limited exposure to English outside the classroom, feelings of isolation, and the pressure to assimilate. For young learners, these challenges may be compounded by the natural struggles of childhood, while adult learners may juggle jobs, families, and other responsibilities.

Despite these challenges, the triumphs far outweigh the difficulties. A student’s first successful conversation in English, a heartfelt “thank you,” or the pride in completing a written assignment are moments that remind me why I teach.

ESL educators do more than teach language; we foster inclusiveness and cross-cultural understanding. By encouraging students to share their stories, traditions, and perspectives, we create a classroom environment that values diversity. These moments of cultural exchange not only enrich the students but also the teachers and the wider community.

Programming that involves families and local communities amplify this impact. Parent-teacher nights, multicultural fairs, and community outreach initiatives can transform schools into hubs of cultural exchange. These efforts go a long way to breaking down barriers and building connections.

I believe that parents, community members, and policymakers support matters. Encourage schools to prioritize ESL education. Volunteer at language programs. Celebrate the successes of multilingual students in our community. When we support ESL learners, we invest in a future that values diversity, resilience, and global cooperation.

As an ESL teacher, I am proud to be part of this transformative work. Together, we can ensure that every learner has the tools they need to succeed, no matter where they come from or where they are headed.

Submitted by Huron Middle School ESL teacher Lilia (Rosa) Eddy

Huron High School PE
We hope this newsletter finds you and your loved ones well! As we continue this school year, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt appreciation for your ongoing support of the Huron School District. Your involvement makes a significant difference in our students’ experiences and successes.

Important Announcements:
● Pickleball Unit: This week, our PE 10-12 classes will kick off the pickleball unit. Did you know that pickleball is one of the most popular sports in America right now? We are excited to introduce our students to this engaging and fun sport!
● Strength Training: Our Strength Training students will be learning about the FITT acronym (Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type) as they prepare to build their own fitness programs based on personal goals later this month. This knowledge will empower them to create a fitness plan that suits their individual needs.

Celebrations from the Week:
● We are thrilled to report that our PE 10-12 classes have successfully completed their badminton tournaments! Students participated in both singles and doubles tournaments, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship.

● In Strength Training, all classes are making great strides in perfecting their lifting techniques. Students are demonstrating proper form as they progress through their programs, which is a significant achievement.

Additional Information:
As we move forward, please remember to encourage your students to stay active and engaged, both in and out of school. Physical fitness is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, and we appreciate your support in reinforcing these values at home. Thank you once again for your continued support in our school community. We are grateful for the opportunity to work together to foster a nurturing environment for our students.

Looking Ahead:
We are excited about the upcoming activities and opportunities for our students, and we look forward to collaborating with you in the weeks to come. Together, we can ensure our children thrive both academically and physically.

Submitted by Clayton Wahlstrom, Physical Education at Huron High School