Showcase: Empowering ENL Students Through Real-World Learning in Our Own Community

At Mont Pleasant Middle School, a special project called “Our Community” has been opening up new worlds for English as a New Language (ENL) students. Thanks to a grant from SCSDEF and the dedication of teacher Yunhee Lee, these students stepped outside their daily classroom routine and into their local community. The project was designed to create a vibrant, language-rich environment where students could practice their English skills in real-world settings. What unfolded was a journey of discovery, connection, and empowerment.

Exploring and Learning Through Experience

The core of the "Our Community" project involved four educational field trips to diverse local sites. Students visited Bowman’s Orchard, explored the campus of Union College, challenged themselves at WildPlay at Thatcher Park, and gazed at the stars at the MiSci Planetarium. Each trip was more than just a day out; it was an immersive learning opportunity.

Before each visit, students engaged in research, learning about the history and significance of these community landmarks. This preparation equipped them with knowledge and vocabulary, turning each trip into a dynamic, interactive lesson. Following their adventures, the students channeled their experiences into a creative project. Working in groups, they designed and produced a detailed booklet about the places they visited, which they proudly shared with classmates and families. This process not only reinforced their learning but also strengthened their writing, collaboration, and presentation skills.

A Life-Changing Glimpse into the Future

While every trip offered unique benefits, the visit to Union College left a profound and lasting impact. For many students, this was their first time on a college campus. The experience was made even more meaningful when they had the chance to interact with current college students who spoke their native languages.

These conversations were powerful. The ENL students heard firsthand about college life, the application process, and the opportunities that await. A particularly transformative moment came when they learned that financial barriers do not have to prevent them from pursuing higher education. They discovered that with good high school grades, college is an attainable goal for anyone. This realization shifted their perceptions and ignited a newfound motivation. For many, the idea of college transformed from a distant dream into a tangible possibility. Mrs. Yunhee Lee noted that this visit significantly boosted the students' ambition to pursue higher education.

Overcoming Barriers and Looking Ahead

The project was a remarkable success, but it also came with its challenges. Some students were unable to attend the trips because they did not receive parental approval. It was observed that some female students, guided by deeply held cultural or religious rules, were among those who missed these valuable experiences. It was a poignant reminder of the complex barriers that can stand in the way of educational opportunities.

This challenge, however, has inspired a thoughtful approach for the future. Yunhee Lee plans to engage in proactive outreach with parents, hoping to open a dialogue and explain the educational value of these trips. The goal is to build trust and find ways to ensure every student can participate in these enriching activities.

The Power of Community Support

The "Our Community" project is a testament to what can be achieved when we invest in our students. It highlights how hands-on, experiential learning can build confidence, enhance language skills, and broaden horizons in ways that a traditional classroom setting cannot always accomplish.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the supporters whose contributions made this grant possible. Your belief in inclusive, innovative education helped create unforgettable moments and opened doors to new futures. By continuing to support projects like this, we empower students to connect with their community, discover their potential, and confidently step toward their dreams.