Hello English: Empowering Young Learners in Clarkston
Upon the successful completion of their Know Your Rights Forum, the Global Youth Ambassadors (GYA) wanted to continue making an impact in the Clarkston community. Under the guidance of our Advocacy and Education Program Director, GYA students have proposed and are implementing Hello English, a pilot program designed to support elementary school students in our after-school program.
Hello English aims to help young learners develop essential language skills while fostering friendships and building confidence. The program focuses on strengthening reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities in a supportive and engaging environment. By helping students gain confidence in their English skills, express themselves in everyday situations—especially in school—and build connections with their peers, Hello English seeks to create a more inclusive learning experience.
Addressing Challenges in Clarkston
Many students in Clarkston, particularly English Language Learners (ELL), face difficulties in reading, writing, and speaking English. Research and student feedback have highlighted that traditional English as a Second Language (ESL) classes often leave students feeling isolated and lacking confidence. Some struggle to make friends, while others feel embarrassed about their language abilities. Additionally, mixed-level classrooms make it difficult for teachers to provide the individualized support some students need without disrupting the overall learning process. Hello English directly addresses these challenges by fostering a sense of belonging, improving students' confidence, and ultimately enhancing their academic success.
A Unique Approach to Language Learning
Unlike traditional ESOL classes, Hello English takes an immersive and interactive approach to learning. Instead of relying solely on a structured curriculum, the program encourages students to engage in group projects, share experiences, and practice speaking in dynamic, real-world scenarios. This hands-on method makes learning more engaging and enjoyable, allowing students to take risks, embrace mistakes as part of the learning process, and develop language skills at their own pace.
By bridging language gaps and fostering meaningful connections, Hello English is empowering young learners to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. The insights gained from this program will also be shared with teachers to enhance their ability to support ELL students effectively. Through this initiative, GYA and the Clarkston Community Center continue to create impactful, student-led programs that make a lasting difference in the community.