Spanish Language Learners at NBHS

According to Massachusetts law, all government schools are required to accept all children regardless of their English proficiency. Why am I sharing this? A caller has brought to my attention that several, 30 maybe 40 teenagers, are students at New Bedford High School. This 3rd hand information (verified by NB Government S) cites one of the high school teachers as stating these students have very limited English. Worse, they have missed a lot of formal education. They speak broken Spanish, but can barely read or write in their native language.

Why are these teenagers in the high school instead of academically appropriate elementary of middle school? According to New Bedford Schools, these children are in classes learning English and core academic subjects. In other  words, separated as necessary. These limited students may matriculate well in gym class with the regular population, but not in Math with students with 8 years of the subject. Hint: Could this be WHY New Bedford touts a five year graduation rate higher than most Baystate cities?

One of the major problems with government education is the open wallet/pocketbook syndrome. This is where government takes our tax dollars and throws it like confetti, in this case on extra tutors. Obviously, these kids need learning. Why should the taxpayer be arm-twisted to pay for it. I don't care if these immigrants are here legally or illegally. Their families should foot the bill for their education. [Frankly, I favor making all students, citizen or otherwise,  pay for education after sixth grade.]

Families have churches, social organizations and other resources to teach their youngin' whatever language they deem fit. BTW>> These groups are an excellent source for socializing and cultural events. Home-schooling is another viable learning option.

I have no idea what the price tag is for setting up a government tutoring service, like the one at NBHS. My humble guess is America, and New Bedford can do better.

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