Monday, September 07, 2009

English as Second Language students thriving in 4-H Club

These kids who have Spanish as their first language are successful 4-H members, demonstrating at county fairs and winning ribbons. Very American! - - Donna Poisl

Deborah Sederberg, The News-Dispatch

MICHIGAN CITY - Mom, apple pie and 4-H. What could be more American?

4-H teaches responsibility and dependability, as well as cooperation, said Norma Hurt, 4-H leader for the club at Marsh Elementary School. Directed at students in English as a Second Language classes, the Marsh 4-H club boasts 23 members in first through sixth grade.

"The younger children (in first and second grade) belong to Mini 4-H," said Hugh Tonagel, extension educator and 4-H youth development director for Purdue University Extension, La Porte County.

The youngsters in this 4-H club grew up with Spanish as their first language. Many of their parents still speak primarily Spanish.
Click on the headline to read the rest of this story! This is only a small part of it.

No comments: