Eastside Elementary School in Haines City has reason to celebrate. It went from an “F” school as its rating from the state to a “C” school.
- Eastside Elementary improves from F to C school
- Change in approach to Spanish-speaking students
- Science program added for first time
Principal Johna Jozwiak said a big reason for the improvement comes from its approach to teaching its mostly Spanish-speaking students. Instead of teaching the students both Spanish and English, now all of the instruction is done in English.
Like many of her colleagues, teacher Zachira Miranda Cordero speaks both Spanish and English. She is able to help the students when they are struggling with their English.
"Some of those kids talk in Spanish at home so we are just teaching them in English and then if they have any questions they are translating them in Spanish," she said.
Because Eastside has made major progress with the English skills of its students, it has been able to add a science program for the first time. There is actually instruction time available for that.
Science teacher Robin Williams has been able to take Eastside from 13 to 47 percent proficiency on state science testing.
"And that alone, her being able to hit all the fifth grade students and the engagement part with hands-on activities, really boosted our kids in science,” said Jozwiak.
Many of the school’s teachers are spending extra time at Eastside this summer working on detailed daily lesson plans so they can hit the ground running when school starts. That’s why the school is hoping for an even better school grade next year.