For Staff
Hmong
Hmong Language and Literacy for SPPS Staff
Hmong Language and Literacy classes are offeredfor staff and parents of SPPS. During the 2009-2010 school year, there will be two types of classes offered. Both classes will aim todevelop more language knowledge in Hmong and build Hmong literacy skills. The twotypes of classes are:
Hmong for Non-Hmong Speakers I with a focus on language learning and basic literacy skills. Access the Audio Files
Hmong for Non-Hmong Speakers II with a focus on building advanced language and literacy skills.
Embedding Hmong Culture in theK-6 Social Studies Curriculum
We know that multicultural education leads to greater understanding and appreciation of diversity among students and staff. In order to provide SPPS staff with information and resources about the culture of our Hmong students, the ELL department developed‘Embedding Hmong Culture into the K-6 Social Studies Curriculum.’ While working on social studies standards with their students, elementary teachers complement the curriculum with information about Hmong culture. Lessons in the ‘Embedding Hmong Culture’ kit cover a broad range of topics, including family life, the story cloth, basic Hmong language, cultural celebrations and ceremonies, music,food, folktales, and history.
Since ‘Embedding Hmong Culture’ was introduced in 2003, over 450 teachers from elementary schools throughout the district have been trained to implement this curriculum. In order to continue meeting the needs of all students while accommodating the time limitations of teachers, the ELL department offers training at school sites on a per-request basis.
Somali
Embedding Somali Culture in the K-3 and 4-6 Social Studies Curriculum
This curriculum is intended for educators who would like to diversify and enrich the mainstream social studies curriculum by including elements of Somali culture. Mainstream teachers attend workshops where they learn about the curriculum and receive a resource material kit consisting of a variety of supplemental materials, including books in Somali and English, DVDs and CDs, a doll wearing the hijab, pictures and posters, a Somali flag, and Somali clothing.. Lesson plans cover a broad range of topics, including holidays and celebrations, Ramadan, Somali songs, folktales, nomadic life,food, customs like wearing the hijab, and basic Somali language. The Embedding Somali Culture in the 4-6 Social Studies Curriculum will be offered starting in 2009-2010
Understanding the Somali Culture and How It Impacts Your Classroom
This presentation shares information about the culture,history, celebrations, and customs of the Somali. Schools and Departments may also request this presentation at their own sites.
For Parents
Hmong Parents as Educational Partners (PEP)
Hmong Parents as Educational Partners is offered to Hmong parents of ELL students. There are eight class sessions over an eight-week period. In the Hmong PEP classes, parents learn basic English skills and pertinent information about the school system. Parents are able to learn in a bilingual environment and develop in their ability to communicate with district staff as well as navigate through the school system. Hmong PEP is taught by bilingual Hmong staff and involves many volunteer tutors from the SPPS senior high schools.
Somali Parents as Educational Partners (PEP)
The Somali Parents as Educational Partners is a monthly class for Adult Basic Education students to learn school related topics in English as part of their ESL classes. Its purpose is to familiarize parents with the United States educational system. Somali PEP classes take place at Highwood Hills Elementary where a large population of Somali students is enrolled.