District translates for parents learning English

A Newport-Mesa Unified school district program that helps parents who don’t speak English fluently get more involved in the child’s education is the state’s best, an official in charge of the program told school board members on Tuesday.

The District English-Learner Advisory Committee “helps the parents feel more of a part in their child’s education,” said Karen Kendall, director of the organization. “There is now a strong trust between the parent and the school and the district.”

The program’s ability to bring those not usually engaged in district affairs was evident Tuesday, as a number of parents who are learning English as a second language listened to a translation of the board meeting report.

District schools with at least 21 English-learners have a committee that reports to the district committee.

Kendall proudly reported that according to the state, Newport-Mesa Unified’s district committee is fully compliant with state standards, making it the state’s best.

The school board also approved a series of teacher training workshops focused on improving information and teaching practices geared toward preschool and early elementary-aged children with autism.

The System Utilization of Comprehensive Strategies for Ensuring Student Success program is a professional development tool that trains teachers how to work with autistic children.

“The methods of discipline for a child with autism are different than for the other kids,” explained Karen Hoffman, who has a high-functioning autistic child at Lincoln Elementary. “I would like all teachers to ‘get’ these kids.”

The next school board meeting will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 25 at district headquarters, 2985 Bear St., Costa Mesa.