Multilingual Memphis

Closing achievement gaps in student success for underrepresented populations

This presentation highlights the indispensable role of multilingual family engagement in nurturing inclusive educational environments and empowering diverse families, particularly within Memphis, a city renowned for its linguistic diversity. With a substantial English learner population of approximately 12,200 and a community boasting 70,000 foreign-born individuals, Memphis demands tailored communication strategies to effectively support its diverse populace. Effective multilingual engagement fosters clear and efficient communication between school staff and Limited English Proficiency (LEP) families, promoting inclusivity through the provision of materials and information in multiple languages. Research underscores the positive impact of such engagement on student outcomes, emphasizing improved academic performance, attendance, and behavior among English learner and culturally diverse students. Moreover, the presentation explores best practices for principals and educators, drawing insights from the Memphis-Shelby County Schools' Department of Multicultural Initiatives and Office of Family and Community Engagement, and elucidates tools and resources utilized for enhanced communication and connection with social services.

Language Focus: All Languages
Level:  Elementary and Secondary Education

This presentation delves into the concept of Dual Language Immersion (DLI) as a cornerstone for providing a bilingual, biliterate, and multicultural education for students in Memphis. Through an exploration of what DLI entails and its support for both English Language Learners (ELLs) and English-home-language students, the session aims to shed light on its implementation within the Memphis community.

Drawing on research findings, the presentation provides insights into how DLI programs benefit Multilingual Learners (MLLs) and offers a concise overview of various DLI program models. It then zooms in on the K-5 Dual Language Immersion Program at Treadwell Elementary School, offering it as a localized case study.

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the program's evolution, its impact on MLLs within Memphis-Shelby County Schools, and the pivotal roles played by educators, administrators, parents, and community organizations in shaping the multilingual landscape of Memphis.

Furthermore, the session will feature a panel comprising DLI teachers and parents who will engage in a 15-20 minute Q&A session, providing valuable insights and perspectives from those directly involved in DLI implementation and advocacy.

Language Focus: English as a Second Language, Spanish
Level:  Elementary Education

This presentation outlines a research paper that investigates the efficacy of a Dual Language Program versus an ESL program for Latinx ESL students in Memphis Shelby County. The purpose of the project is to examine and compare the academic outcomes of Latinx ESL students in both programs utilizing test scores from TCAP and the Avant STAMP test to discover if there is an academic gap between Latinx and ESL students in 5th grade. The author chose this topic as a social justice issue for multilinguals living in English-only states that are forced to assimilate to the dominant language at the expense of their native one. The Special Project entails cross-sectional quantitative research into recent (within the last five years) peer-reviewed articles from reputable journals that focus on Dual language programs and ESL program efficacy in the United States with large Latinx ESL populations. In addition, the author would analyze Tennessee's assessments of Latinx ESL students including collecting data from 5th grade TCAP scores and the STAMP test of Latinx ESL students in one academic year. The predicted growth of multilinguals in the United States is projected to explode in the next twenty years and policies that are monolingually driven hinder rather than support multilinguals students in obtaining a high quality free and public education (FAPE). The author hopes that research into the academic outcomes from Latinx ESL population in the Midsouth would change state monolingual policies.

Language Focus: English as a Second Language, Spanish, All Languages
Level:  Elementary Education

Connecting with other disciplines while using the target language to develop critical thinking and to solve problems creatively (especially with reading comprehension, Math, US History, Speech, Human Anatomy & Physiology, Art, Biology, Business, Music, Psychology, Sociology, Accounting, and Nutrition)

The Communication Management Model 4C's, encompassing Consciousness, Comprehension, Construction, and Communication, aims to foster a deeper understanding of religious faith and culture for enhanced language comprehension and community coexistence. The development of this model stemmed from the necessity identified by the Catholic Diocese of Memphis to provide Spanish language education for its faculty, priests, seminarians, and staff. The model's inception recognized the imperative to not only teach language skills but also to impart cultural insights into the Hispanic Catholic community's way of life. While initially tailored for the Spanish language and Hispanic Catholic community, this model is applicable across diverse linguistic, religious, and communal contexts.

Language Focus: Spanish, All Languages
Level:  Post-Secondary Education

Connecting the learning of a second language to other disciplines develops critical thinking skills and provides students with a more exciting learning experience. Encouraging students to make their own connections to their learning in other areas helps them be better learners in all their subjects. Making these connections helps our students become lifelong learners.

Language Focus: Russian, All Languages
Level:  Secondary Education

This purpose of this talk is to provide an overview of various gamification options to promote inclusive teaching practices in the L2 classroom, where gamification is understood as not just the mere incorporation of games such as jeopardy into the classroom, but rather as a pedagogical approach promoting learning through game dynamics. The emphasis is put on culturally responsive teaching, specifically by linking the L2 classroom to the field of heritage linguistics. In particular, after providing an overview of examples of inclusive gamification practices, e.g., the Millenial Lotería or the Afro-Hispanic Lotería (that is to say, inclusive versions of the traditional ‘Mexican bingo’), the emphasis is put on addressing language-related stigma and prejudices faced by heritage speakers in the US, namely, the so-called “No sabo” generation. Specifically, an open-access game is presented, where players, irrespective of their training in heritage linguistics, gain a critical understanding of language-related stigma and prejudices. Players attempt to preserve their Spanish and pass it to the next generation, learning about how factors such as speaker density, origin of the parents, number of siblings or access to dual language programs affect their chances of preserving the language. Language rights, the history of US Spanish or how to fight language prejudices also figure prominently in the game. The relevance of the issue can be seen in the fact that 54% of US Latinx have been language-shamed for not speaking Spanish or not speaking it properly, according to the Pew Research Center. The game was specifically developed to be used in the classroom and can be used in both higher and secondary education.

Language Focus: Spanish
Level:  All Levels

The Spanish Community Interpretation and Translation Technical Certificate at Southwest Tennessee Community College (STCC) focuses on preparing bilingual students to work as Spanish/English translators in multiple community settings. Students learn best practices and skills for professional interpreters and translators, building on their life-long experience as informal interpreters. STCC embraces the opportunity to grow this program with local partners to meet the needs of the community, including by exploring dual-enrollment certificate programs.

Language Focus: Spanish
Level:  Post-Secondary Education

Removing barriers for under-resourced students (assisting low-income, academically at-risk, and first-generation students)\

The presentation aims to introduce the operational framework of the ESL program at Southwest Tennessee Community College, highlighting strategies for overcoming obstacles faced by ESL students. Key points covered include the program's adaptation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a breakdown of its three proficiency levels, and the establishment of continuity between these levels. Additionally, the presentation will delve into the administration and scoring process of the placement test used by the program. Further discussion will focus on the OER grant, detailing its provisions and the opportunities it afforded the program. Lastly, the presentation will explore the utilization of external resources such as Grammarly, Voices of America, BC Reads, and YouTube to supplement the learning experience for ESL students.

Language Focus: English as a Second Language
Level:  Post-Secondary Education

The Tennessee Consortium for International Studies (TnCIS) is dedicated to promoting international education and cultural understanding across nineteen colleges and universities in Tennessee. Through an annual conference and the expansion of study abroad programs, TnCIS strives to integrate an international dimension into higher education. Programs typically run for 3 to 4 weeks in the summer, offering credit-bearing courses available to students from member institutions. While TnCIS does not provide financial aid directly, tuition scholarships are often available. Each member institution appoints a TnCIS Campus Representative to guide students through program selection and registration processes. By facilitating access to global learning experiences, TnCIS fosters the development of global citizens within Tennessee's higher education community.

Language Focus: All Languages
Level:  Post-Secondary Education

we explored the mission and vision of Cazateatro Bi-lingual Theatre Group, whose core aim is to bridge cultural divides through bilingual productions in Tennessee. Their vision, "Building a Bridge Between Cultures," underscores their commitment to celebrating Latin American culture while providing enriching experiences for all. As the only arts organization in the state dedicated to bilingual productions, Cazateatro fosters inclusivity with a diverse ensemble of Spanish and English-speaking artists, exemplifying the transformative power of the arts in fostering understanding and unity within communities.

Language Focus: Spanish
Level:  All Levels

The Southwest Tennessee Community College (STCC) Dual Enrollment Program offers high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to enroll in college courses for credit, providing a seamless transition into higher education. This presentation will provide information about the benefits of dual enrollment, including earning college credit, accelerating degree completion, and cost savings. The presentation outlines various partnership options between schools and STCC, offering flexibility in program delivery, including on-campus, off-campus, and online courses. Attendees will gain insights into eligibility criteria, instructor requirements, and the application process, with opportunities for further inquiry.

Language Focus: French, Spanish
Level:  Secondary Education

School districts must be prepared to address, inform, and engage ALL stakeholders. Schools are facing rapidly changing demographics, such as enrollment decline, increased school options, and a steadily increasing multicultural community. More than ever, school districts need to engage, inform, and make cultural connections with all families. In this presentation, we will cover and outline various communication strategies to heighten your bilingual communications efforts – sharing successful strategies to engage and serve diverse communities. 

Language Focus: Spanish
Level:  Elementary and Secondary Education

Teaching foundational skills in English to newcomer students in elementary school:

EduIntegra, Inc. (Education Blend) fosters bilingualism and cultural diversity. This tutoring program, rooted in a deep appreciation for families and education, is dedicated to supporting elementary school students, particularly English Language Learners (ELL), in bridging academic learning gaps. Central to its mission is the promotion of bilingual education and the celebration of cultural diversity.

Through EduIntegra, ESL students from 3rd to 5th grade are provided with tailored tutoring aimed at equipping them with essential reading and writing skills necessary for their academic journey. Emphasizing Phonemic Awareness as a foundational pillar, the program focuses on teaching phonics, spelling, CVC words, high-frequency words, and fundamental components of English sentences.

Operating within the framework of an "In school support program," EduIntegra delivers tutoring services within school facilities during after-school hours. Beyond academic support, the program fosters a nurturing environment where students feel safe, loved, and secure as they embark on their bilingual learning journey.

This presentation delves into the background and methodology of EduIntegra, highlighting its pivotal role in reinforcing foundational reading and writing skills among non-English speaking students. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of bilingual teaching in creating inclusive educational spaces and fostering parental involvement in their children's education and integration into the local culture.

Language Focus: English as a Second Language
Level:  Elementary Education

The presentation aims to give strategies on how to increase opportunities for multilingual student success through a holistic approach, which includes examining appropriate instruction (accommodations, rigor, etc.), reflecting and self-reflecting on teacher/leader expectations, and providing various supports to families.

Language Focus: English as a Second Language
Level:  Elementary and Secondary Education

Creating a culture of data-informed decision-making to help close academic achievement gaps and improve retention and student success outcomes

Utilizing public data dashboards, this presentation will show the diversity of the student population at Southwest Tennessee Community College, how those demographics are changing, and explore opportunities for community partnerships to help provide resources for students at STCC as well as partnering with external organizations to help close achievement gaps and remove barriers for success.

Language Focus: All Languages
Level:  Post-Secondary Education

Utilizing student-centered teaching practices that incorporate student's unique needs, lived experiences, and environments (especially through Academic Growth Mindset, High Impact Practices, and Literacy Narratives).

This presentation will delve into the theory and application of dynamic language strategies, specifically translanguaging and plurilingualism, to enrich students' language learning experiences. We will explore how integrating multiple languages can be a powerful pedagogical tool. The talk will consider languages as interconnected systems that can bridge the divide between home and school linguistic environments, thereby enhancing teaching and learning. 

Resources from English Language Programs and other U.S. Department of State programs will be highlighted, providing attendees with opportunities to apply within their educational settings. The session will embody the philosophy that leveraging learners' linguistic resources supports English language acquisition and fosters community connections and academic development. 

Language: English  as a Second Language
Level:  All Levels

This presentation explores effective strategies for teaching vocabulary and comprehension to ESL (English as a Second Language) students, emphasizing the importance of immersive and contextual learning experiences. It delves into practical approaches and considerations for educators aiming to enhance language acquisition and understanding in diverse ESL classroom settings.

Language Focus: English as a Second Language
Level:  All Levels

Today's classrooms are more diverse than ever and yet teachers often find themselves underprepared to respond in culturally sensitive ways to the many students they serve. Hosted by staff from Su Casa Family Ministries, this session will briefly cover research-driven practices for improving intercultural communication competence and share how Su Casa aims to provide a safe space for engagement in the Memphis community. 

Language All Languages, Spanish
Level:  All Levels