Giselle’s journey to English fluency began at The Potter’s House (TPH), a school in her community. Enrolling in preschool with her twin sister, Ailyn, neither spoke English. This article explores how TPH provided the environment and resources that enabled Giselle to not only learn English but also thrive academically and personally.
A Supportive Learning Environment Fosters Language Acquisition
Giselle credits several teachers at TPH with playing pivotal roles in her language development. Paraprofessionals and teachers like Mrs. Lugo, Mrs. Murray, and Mrs. DeJong provided dedicated support, translating, teaching, and fostering a nurturing learning environment. This immersive approach, combined with the school’s resources, allowed Giselle and her sister to overcome the language barrier. By the fourth grade, their English proficiency was sufficient to exit the ESL program and integrate into mainstream classes, demonstrating the effectiveness of the school’s language acquisition program.
Beyond Language: A Rich Educational Experience
TPH offered a comprehensive education that extended far beyond language acquisition. Giselle recalls a wide range of enriching experiences, including science camp, field trips, extracurricular activities, and community service projects. This holistic approach provided a well-rounded education that fostered both academic and personal growth. The diverse opportunities available at TPH stood in stark contrast to the experiences of her cousins who attended other schools, highlighting the unique and privileged learning environment Giselle enjoyed.
Spiritual Growth and Cultural Awareness
In addition to academic excellence, TPH emphasized spiritual development and cultural awareness. Through programs like middle school Discipleship and Anchor Worship, Giselle’s faith was strengthened, and she learned about different cultures and perspectives. The school encouraged open discussions about faith and provided a supportive community for spiritual exploration. These experiences broadened her understanding of the world and fostered a sense of empathy and compassion.
A Transformative Impact on the Entire Family
Giselle’s education at TPH had a ripple effect on her entire family. Her mother learned English alongside her daughters, eventually becoming fluent. Moreover, the school’s emphasis on cultural understanding transformed her parents’ perspectives, opening them up to new ideas and experiences. The exposure to diverse cultures through school activities and projects helped Giselle’s family overcome initial fears and embrace a more inclusive worldview.
Inspiring Future Aspirations
Giselle’s experiences, both within and outside of TPH, shaped her career aspirations. Inspired by doctors she encountered during her sister’s medical treatments, she developed a passion for orthopedic surgery. The combination of a rigorous academic foundation, exposure to diverse opportunities, and a supportive environment at TPH laid the groundwork for Giselle’s future pursuits in the medical field. She plans to pursue a pre-med biology degree at Grand Canyon University.
Conclusion
Giselle’s story exemplifies the transformative power of a quality education. TPH provided the necessary tools and support for her to learn English, excel academically, grow spiritually, and develop a global perspective. Her journey underscores the importance of immersive language learning, holistic educational approaches, and the profound impact of a supportive community. From a non-English speaking preschooler to an aspiring orthopedic surgeon, Giselle’s success is a testament to the enduring value of education and the opportunities it unlocks.
