5353-Learn Tech- Week 1 Blog

Hello my name is Lorena Rubio. In my fifth year of teaching in Central Texas. I have taught 3 years in Kindergarten in a Bilingual classroom and 2 years in a Dual Language classroom. I have taught in 2 Districts. Before I made the change to teach a Dual Language classroom, I was terrified of the idea of teaching Spanish learners. Although there have been challenges, I am enjoying the experience and experienced professional growth by stepping out of my comfort zone . I am a wife and mother to a 1 year old cutie! Besides my little human family, I also have 3 dogs (2 German Shepherds mix and 1 chihuahua), 15 hens and roosters, and 3 cats!

The community I live in has experienced tremendous growth with a population of 23,054 and has a poverty rate of 17.9%, 29.2% have obtained a Bachelor’s Degree or higher, race and ethnicity demographics of larger groups are 28% hispanics and 58% of white. 

The CCD Public school data 2021-2022 reports, the school located within city limits, the school is a Title 1. The school currently provides Dual Language to grades K-3rd.

There are many parties to be called to action to serve but I would like to target the school leaders to provide action to fill various voids within the Bilingual and Dual Language curriculum. The biggest gaps that need to be addressed whether in a bilingual or dual language classroom are the availability of authentic resources and books to support the teaching and the learning in the classroom, and the professional learning specifically to Spanish speakers and learners . 




Comments

  1. Ciara ZukeJanuary 14, 2024 at 7:52 AM

    Hi Lorena,

    Wow! I'm sure a ton of work goes into teaching in bilingual and dual language classrooms. It is so important for students to have equal access to resources, especially in their native languages. Authentic learning materials allow for development of skills and understanding that is crucial to overall academic achievement. I love that you are truly advocating for your students' needs with your call to action plan. Great post!

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  2. Lydia Byrd EDUC 5313January 14, 2024 at 8:16 AM

    Hello Lorena!

    I am also in Texas! I have taught for 4 years now, so I am almost in a similar situation as you. I used to teach at a dual language school, but now I have moved to a different district. So I have also taught in two different districts. Thank you for sharing about yourself! It’s funny because I also mentioned my furbabies. I have two. One is a lab/german shepherd mix and my other is a husky, so they keep me busy for sure. I appreciate how you shared the specific percentages of your community; that was very helpful. I do agree with you concerning the digital divide maybe being more prevalent in your type of demographics. I liked how you mentioned being authentic in giving resources and being able to support learning in the classroom. I look forward to seeing more of your posts!

    Lydia Byrd

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  3. Samantha SmithJanuary 14, 2024 at 7:04 PM

    Hi Lorena,

    That is amazing that you stepped in that position. I know that probably took a lot of courage, and we need more educators like you. With your experience, I'm sure you are going to know exactly what you can do. I love how you are wanting to fill a void, that many do not think of. It is always interesting to me, to read others post and see what's outside my bubble of knowledge.

    Have a great week.
    Samantha Smith

    ReplyDelete

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