Graphic made in Canva by Fluco Journalism.

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teacher Jennifer Payne’s class is a place for non-native speakers of English at FCHS to learn how to speak and write in English. She also allows students to come to her class and do their work with her in case they need assistance, such as helping them translate assignments into their native languages. ESOL also has a family liaison who provides assistance to families adjusting to living in the U.S.

Here, junior Safia Mukhlis from Afghanistan comes to Payne’s class for assistance with her work. “I love Mrs. Payne because she helps a lot with my work and she is easy to talk to,” said Mukhlis. Payne said she currently serves over 50 students from eight different languages. “Spanish is the predominant language of my ESOL students, but other languages such as Swahili and Pashto are also spoken,” said Payne.

During downtime, ESOL students enjoy drawing on Payne’s whiteboard. Here, junior Fariba Hashimi from Afghanistan draws some traditional Islamic art. “I love drawing on her board because she lets us draw whatever we want, and it’s full of art,” said Hashimi.

Payne recognizes students’ individual cultures, such as tracking Ramadan for her students who celebrate the Islamic holiday. “It would be nice to speak the home languages of my students,” said Payne, “but my job is to teach English. Thanks to modern technology, I can help translate assignments and assist my students with understanding the academic language needed for their classes.”

Sophomore Marhaba Abdulrahimzai from Afghanistan goes to Mrs. Payne’s room to do her science work. “I like how even though I’m not in her class, Mrs. Payne still lets me come here and do my work. Her room is very comforting,” said Abdulrahimzai.