My daughter was placed in a mostly spanish speaking class?

Question

She just entered the 1st grade and is 1 of only 2 students in her class that speak fluent english, we are hispanic and while i think i would be great for her to pick up some spanish i am worried that she might be held back some due to the fact that the teacher not only has to teach the curriculum but also focus on teaching the other children english should i be concerned?

Answer 1

Absolutely you should be concerned!  Your child will be handicapped by the slow pace that the teacher will have to keep.  Speak to the principal immediately.

This is why we moved to a different city when my children started school.  It's ridiculous!

Mom:  You probably live somewhere where this situation isn't slapping you in the face every single day.  It's easy to have an open mind about something you rarely have to deal with.

Answer 2

I don't think it would be so wrong for your daughter. In terms of english skills maybe. Look into transferring her to a different class. Just keep this in mind: When entering the workforce, there are so many different people from many countries, that as long as communication is clear it doesn't matter how well your english is.

As for B (which probably stands for something similar to a dog) why would that make you angry?  

Answer 3

I would be concerned yes.  I would talk to the administrators, see if there's a way to transfer your child to a different 1st grade class.  If not and you still feel your child could be suffering from the environment, I would seriously consider changing schools.  It may sound drastic but consider yourself a little lucky.  Your kid is only in the 1st grade; this problem in the 8th grade might be more troublesome and inconvenient.

Also, I suggest making sure you keep up with your child's assignments and homework.  Make sure you read and interact with him/her every night after school.  This will definitely help you see if your kid is falling behind, missing concepts or just not understanding the material.

Answer 4

Observe the class for about a week  by going in and seeing what is being done in the class.  You will see how much is devoted to translating, etc., and you will know if that is the right class for your daughter.  If, after a week , you feel that is not the right type of instruction you want her to receive, ask for her to be transferred to regular edcuation.  What happens so many times is that the teacher uses the bi-lingual children as interpreters and helpers in the room.  

It helps her teach better, however, it may take away time from your child advancing.  --- Toni D.