Sunny Deitrick
I am an AACPS: English Language Acquisition Teacher, Old Mill High School | 2018 Teacher of the Year Nominee
My first day of school as a student was both frightening and exciting. I remember my first grade teacher finding ways to communicate with me, a shy, intimated girl who spoke no English. When I cried because of cultural misunderstandings, she would sit with me until she figured out what was upsetting me. She was empathic and made me feel safe and secure. And my ESOL teacher helped me connect to my new life in the states. He found ways for me to learn new words as well as make connections with my teachers and peers. My own educational experience brought me into the field of education.
It is important to me to teach the same way I’ve been taught. Not all students are the same; some students come to school with an educational background while some have a limited education. It is important to activate their prior knowledge whether it’s an experience in their village or something they’ve read in their school books. Even with the differences in educational level, they all have the same struggle of learning a new language. They all need to be shown equity and be provided with a safe and inviting learning environment.
From my experiences, I have formed my philosophy of what makes a great educator. They would have to be passionate about teaching and show respect towards their students, help students when they are struggling academically and social-emotionally, and collaborate with other faculty members. They should also find various ways to explain a topic if the students does not understand by familiarizing themselves with students’ culture and interests to use real world examples. It’s very difficult for English Language Learners, especially if they enter high school when they first arrive. They have so many obstacles such as learning a new language as well as pass High School Assessments to fulfill their graduation requirements and pass all their classes with a satisfactory grade. They would also have to become familiar with new foods and cultures. I’ve seen them progress every year, not only in their English acquisition but also their academics and social interactions. They have more self-confidence and not afraid of trying new things. It brings me such great joy when I see my students walk across the stage to receive their high school diploma and become active members of our community. I’ve never had children of my own, but am lucky and fortunate to have known so many wonderful children in my life.
It is important for me to make connections to my students and build a foundation that will help them towards graduation and beyond. I went to many soccer games and a majority of my new students were playing. They approached me and said in English, “You’re our biggest fan.” It may seem like a small thing to connect with students in their lives but is a way I know to help them connect with this new world.
