The EL Conversation Club that involves both ELD and native English-speaking students meets monthly; native speakers provide additional English support and practice for ELD students. These interactions serve as an opportunity for English-speaking students to earn volunteer hours and for ELD students to learn more conversational English. More than just creating a language learning space for students, the EL Conversation Club fosters a unique community of people who come together despite their differences.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the club began as a breakfast session involving both ELD an English-speaking students at FHS. During this time, it involved smaller events with fewer students. Like many clubs, activities halted during the COVID-19 pandemic, but since coming out of the pandemic, the club has been gradually building back up and thriving. The meetings are usually held in the FHS Student Center during tutorial, with different activities in each meeting, targeted to help ELD students improve their English skills.
FUHSD Board of Trustees member Rosa Kim shared the benefits of the club, for both student volunteers and ELD students alike. She also mentioned the current attendance of around 120 students.
“We keep track of time and your attendance and we give you volunteer hours,” Kim said.
The next meeting is taking place on May 10 and the location is yet to be determined. All students are encouraged to go, regardless of foreign language proficiency.
“This is all about practicing English,” Kim said. “So you don’t need to know a different language but we do have many Spanish-speaking students and some of them need translations. So we have adult volunteers who can speak Spanish, but I think if you can speak at least a little Spanish, this is a chance for you.”
Kim further highlighted the importance of student involvement and building relationships with communities outside of students’ own.
“If we have more students from Fremont High School who want to help English learners, and they can meet on the campus, I think our English learning students can feel more sense of belonging to the campus,” Kim said.
