(Port Washington, NY- May 2024) Port Washington School District’s ENL Department Pre-K-12 recently held its annual English as a New Language (ENL) Family Cultural Night, an event that not only celebrated the cultural diversity of our students but also the achievements of English Language Learners (ELLs). ELL students were recognized for their outstanding contributions to civic and community engagement, demonstrating exceptional dedication to serving the community through various initiatives and projects.
In addition, the event showcased the success of the Language Buddies program, which pairs high school students with elementary ELL newcomers to provide mentorship and support, and honored students who earned the prestigious Seal of Biliteracy, an award that validates their bilingual proficiency.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of multicultural food, adding a delicious dimension to the evening's festivities, as well as book giveaways and raffle prizes. Various community-based organizations highlighted their support and provided valuable resources and information. Student performances from the Latin Dance Club added to the festive atmosphere, showcasing the talents and cultural heritage of the students.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Priscilla Zarate expressed her pride and gratitude. "We are incredibly proud of our ELLs, Language Buddies, and Seal of Biliteracy students," Zarate said. "Their achievements in civic engagement, bilingualism, and mentorship are truly inspiring. The sense of community and cultural appreciation we witnessed is invaluable, and we look forward to continuing to support and celebrate our students' successes."
