Parkside Elementary School is being recognized for creating an inclusive learning environment for students and families with diverse backgrounds from across the world.
The school is this year's recipient of the prestigious Al Young Educator of the Year Award, presented by the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI). This award honors the collective dedication and impact of Parkside’s educators and staff.
In December 2021, Parkside enrolled its first families from Afghanistan who had fled their home country and relocated to the area with the support of the International Rescue Committee (I.R.C.). This began a transformation of both the student population and the support services needed for families enrolled in the school.
By the spring of 2022, Parkside had enrolled nearly 75 students from Afghanistan. These students arrived within a few months of opening schools during the pandemic. The school quickly began developing programs to welcome them. Staff partnered with the I.R.C. to learn how to best onboard and support the new community members. Two new staff members from Afghanistan were hired to ensure families could make connections in their home language.
Language Learning Facilitator Rosann Rankin worked with I.R.C. and central office colleagues to develop a new family welcome routine. Newly enrolled families received a tour of the school, had the opportunity to ask questions, and formed relationships with school staff. This intentional welcome created a supportive partnership between families and Parkside.
The number of students who were newcomers to English and to school in the United States continued to increase daily. Today, Parkside Elementary had enrolled around 150 students from Afghanistan, which accounted for about a third of the student body.
“The entire Parkside staff collaborates to create a learning environment that supports the diverse group of students, who come from around the world,” said Parkside Elementary School Principal Bobbi Giammona.
Educators are adapting to teach in ways that are accessible to students learning English and are culturally responsive to students from a wide variety of backgrounds. Teachers are intentional in building strong classroom communities where students feel safe, supported, and valued.
"The families of Afghan students are deeply committed to ensuring their children have rich learning experiences while maintaining strong ties to their roots, a value that Parkside staff embraces and reflects," said Principal Giammona. "It is a joy for Parkside staff to learn more about Afghanistan and the culture of the new community members. We feel fortunate to have many wonderful families joining the school, and the entire staff is deeply dedicated to making strong connections that ensure a culture of belonging at Parkside."