Written by Charo Rodriguez, BFIS Director of Communications
Did you know that BFIS is one of the three schools in Europe certified as Bilingual and Multilingual Learners? In this enlightening podcast episode of BFIS, Associate Head of School Lila Jorge, joined by Liz Mahaffey, Head of Whole School Support Services, and Erika Johnson, K-12 Instructional Coach and English Language Acquisition Teacher, delves deep into the school’s profound commitment to supporting bilingual and multilingual learners (BMLs).
Honoring Linguistic Diversity
The conversation begins with a reflection on the school’s journey from using the term “English as an additional language” (EAL) to embracing the more inclusive term “bilingual and multilingual learners” (BMLs), emphasizing our dedication to honoring linguistic diversity and fostering educational excellence for all students, regardless of language background.
Collaborative Framework
Throughout the discussion, the team elucidates the comprehensive approach undertaken by the school to enhance language support initiatives. They shed light on the strategic partnership forged with Francesca McGeary and the esteemed Center for Educators of BMLs, meticulously chosen for their profound understanding of the school’s international context and commitment to tailored language support strategies. By leveraging a collaborative framework and drawing upon research-based methodologies, the school meticulously crafted a three-year action plan aimed at addressing the unique needs of BMLs and promoting multiple language development as well as equitable access to educational opportunities.
Myths and Misconceptions
Then, the conversation delves into the myth-busting realm of language acquisition, where Erika Johnson adeptly dismantles misconceptions surrounding language learning. Through insightful discussions, the team underscores the myriad benefits of multilingualism, from heightened creativity and problem-solving abilities to enhanced empathy and cultural appreciation. Furthermore, they emphasize the pivotal role of parental involvement and community engagement in nurturing language development and fostering a sense of belonging among BMLs.
Looking toward the future, the team expresses unwavering enthusiasm for the continued evolution of language support initiatives and the celebration of linguistic diversity within the school community. With a steadfast commitment to embracing diversity as a cornerstone of educational excellence, the school remains poised to empower bilingual and multilingual learners on their educational journey, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
