The Case for Language Inclusivity in School Communications
by Viviana Killion Senior Director for School-Community and Governmental Relations Galena Park ISD
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alking into my kindergarten classroom back in 1985 is a moment I recall vividly. Ms. Estes stood in the doorway to greet my mom and me into the classroom. Her small frame, tidy gray hair and warm smile invoked warmth and kindness. I nervously leaned into her hug, and I remember looking at my mom as if to say, “I think I’m okay, but I’m scared.” `My mother’s tentative smile seemed to convey the same message back, “I think you’re okay, but I’m scared, too.” We couldn’t understand what Ms. Estes was saying because neither one of us spoke or understood English. Spanish had been the only language spoken in our home, and as I walked through the doorway – unable to communicate with my teacher – I was greeted by classmates who couldn’t understand me either. It felt scary and lonely. I don’t regret this experience, as difficult as it might have been at the time. There were few Hispanic families in Crosby, Texas back then, but I was blessed by many kind, loving teachers and administrators throughout my education who embraced my family’s language and cultural differences and found potential in a young Hispanic girl. They found ways to connect with my family, and my mom would offer homemade flour tortillas in return for the kindness they showed us. But I wonder how different my experience might have been if language and culture had been inconsequential. I am part of the communications department in Galena Park Independent School District, which serves an 80 percent Hispanic student population. Our district has been extremely intentional about serving these families equitably for many years. We are fortunate to rely on dedicated translators who devote much of their time to translating curriculum, assessments and communications so our students are served, and families know what is happening in our schools and in our district. Nearly every single communication sent to families has a Spanish counterpart. It is a priority in Galena Park ISD, and the expectation is set by our highest level of leaders – Board of Trustees, Superintendent and Cabinet.
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Fall 2021 | www.TSPRA.org
