Addison Trail implements new program to support English learner students

One of the greatest strengths of District 88 and Addison Trail is the rich diversity represented among the students and staff.

About 40 languages and more than 30 countries are represented among District 88 families, and almost half of the nearly 4,000 students speak a language other than English at home. The district’s core values include ensuring all students, staff and community members feel safe, valued, respected and welcome – regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity. 

As part of that commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and a sense of belonging for all students, Addison Trail recently implemented a program to support English learner (EL) students.

Spearheaded by Addison Trail EL reading teacher Maria DiNovo and the leadership team of Erica Craig, Director of Biliteracy for District 88 and Addison School District 4, and Jenna Phillips, Addison Trail EL and Reading Department Head, the program – called Puentes, which means “Bridges” in Spanish – trains students in advanced EL classes or recently exited EL students to provide guidance and social-emotional assistance to new EL students. Puentes was inspired by pupils in EL 3 classes who were looking for a way to help new students, because they “remember what it was like” when they first came to Addison Trail.

The group met for the first time on Jan. 27 (see photos above). Mentors will meet regularly with Addison Trail Social Worker Jorge de Leon to develop leadership skills to connect with and guide the school’s newest language learners. Students in the program will meet for activities twice a month, with an overall goal of having mentors and mentees participate in extracurricular activities together to increase participation of language learners in clubs, activities and sports at Addison Trail.

“Through this program, we hope to help increase the feeling of belonging for the newest members of the Addison Trail community,” DiNovo said.

For questions or more information about Puentes, contact DiNovo at mdinovo@dupage88.net or 630-458-4355.