The Summer English as a Second Language Academy (SESLA) empowers young English learners

For three weeks ending Friday, the program has been an educational adventure of learning plus fun

For young newcomer English Learners in the Ann Arbor Public Schools, the Summer ESL Academy (SESLA) has been an opportunity for both fun and growth.

During the three-week program ending Friday, 275 students exiting grades K-7 (SESLA) and 35 students entering 9th grade in the ELA Bridge program embarked on an educational adventure designed to boost their English language proficiency and mathematical skills through an engaging curriculum.

“Summer ESL Academy plays a crucial role in supporting our newcomer English learners, providing them with targeted instruction and a supportive environment that helps them transition smoothly into the school system,” said Huda Harajli, the district’s director of English Learner Programs. “These three weeks are vital for their academic and social development.”

Held at Carpenter Elementary, the program was open to every newcomer English learner for SESLA K-7 and all 8th-grade newcomers for EL bridge.

Jessica Harmon, administrator of the SESLA/EL Bridge Summer Program, says students are newcomers from many different countries, and during these three weeks, they learn more about the English language and work with specialized English language development teachers to improve their skills.”

One of SESLA’s most innovative aspects is its collaboration with the University of Michigan. Interns from U-M work alongside experienced teachers, creating a unique co-teaching environment that benefits both the students and the aspiring educators.

Hannah Cheng, a University of Michigan intern from Taiwan, offers a unique perspective.

“When I started the SESLA program, I saw kids from different places gather in one classroom, playing and working with each other, learning English in a more natural way,” said Cheng, an ESL learner herself who has used her personal experiences to connect with and teach the students.

Harmon explained that the collaboration with the University of Michigan allows students to improve their English language skills from two skilled teachers, even as the interns see ESL taught by pros.

The program’s approach extends beyond academics, as there is an emphas on social integration. “This is a really fun time for them to not only gain academic knowledge but also make friends and have fun,” says teacher Joys Kapali.

The curriculum includes teaching students how to play common games during recess, an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of social integration in American schools.

The academy’s goals are comprehensive: developing students’ reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in English while strengthening their mathematical abilities; and fostering relationships among teachers, students, and their families.

“Our district’s English Learner and newcomer population continues to grow,” says Harajli, “and programs like these are essential in ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in our district.”