Bilingual Education and Special Education

EVERY LEOPARD, Every Day

BILINGUAL EDUCATION

The goal of the bilingual education program is to help English Language Learners (ELLs) master the state curriculum and to teach English to all participating students. GISD offers bilingual education through either a one-way or two-way dual language program model. Dual language programs generally start in kindergarten or first grade and extend for at least five years.

ONE-WAY DUAL LANGUAGE PROGRAM MODEL

One-Way Dual Language refers to the group of students participating in the program as being all from only one of the two languages used in the program model. One-way programs support one language group of students to become bilingual, bi-cultural, and bi-literate. For example, students whose primary language is Spanish would learn in English and Spanish in a one-way dual language program model. TWO-WAY DUAL LANGUAGE PROGRAM MODEL

Two-Way Dual Language refers to the group of students participating in the program as being from both of the languages used in the program model. Two-way programs support two language groups of students to become bilingual, bicultural, and biliterate. For example, a mix of first language Spanish-speaking and English-speaking students would learn in both languages. BENEFITS OF DUAL LANGUAGE PROGRAMS

Dual Language Programs: • Provide a means for students to stay connected to their parents and extended families. • Let students be prideful that they are able to be connected to two cultures and languages. • Provide greater opportunities for careers in many fields such as medical, academic, business, communications, technology,and law. SPECIAL EDUCATION

The GISD Special Education department ensures that our Life Skills students have success within the classroom and outside the classroom. The goal of the GHS Community & Job Skills Learning Program is to create lifelong learners who give back to their community. The skills that are acquired in these communitybased experiences provide realistic and practical learning experiences that reinforce classroom instruction. Within this program, the GHS Life Skills students are able to experience job-related skills with the help of our community. Some of our partners include Frank Buck Zoo, Second Time Around, VISTO, Cicis, and Hampton Inn. The partners allow our students to perform tasks within their worksites, and these skills can be transferred into future employment opportunities. The students begin to acquire skills to flourish after high school and become lifelong community leaders.

Students testimonials about their experiences:

“We learn to work together and follow directions.”

“We are learning to rake leaves and repurpose bags for the zoo.”

The students are also connected (referred) with the Texas Workforce Commission – Vocational Rehabilitation Services to ensure continued progress towards achieving their career goals for after high school. One of the most important services that TWC-VRS can provide to our students that are eligible is Vocational Adjustment Training (VAT courses), Work Experience Training, and Supported Employment. The VAT courses teach the students about job preparation, how to find jobs, and appropriate behaviors on the job. Three GHS students participated in the Work Experience Training last year. The students worked at Hampton Inn for 12 weeks, earning $8 per hour, while receiving hands-on job training at the work site. Through Supported Employment, the students are provided a job coach that can assist them with obtaining and maintaining paid employment in the community.