District seeks additional teacher for adult English program

By Jazmine Knight

St. Joseph school leaders are seeking to improve communication with parents who have limited or no English skills with a new position.

As the immigrant population increases, LaTonya Williams, president of the school board, thinks it’s important that the district is prioritizing English learners as adults.

“It’s good in order to give all people in the community a chance in order to learn and grow,” she said. “I know that we’re here mainly for the children, you know, but the adults also need to turn.”

According to the district’s website, applicants must have either a Missouri Teaching Licensure or a bachelor’s degree and would report to the supervisor of adult education.

The part-time position would be employed for 10 months on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

Williams said this position would help many families who have to use their children as translators. As a mom, she understands that kids will be kids and it wouldn’t surprise her if some take advantage of the language barrier to embellish when it comes to their school performance.

“It’s really important for adults in order to be able to converse about the child’s education and the child not be a part of that conversation,” she said.

For those who are interested, the district is looking for someone who can create a trusting environment and develop daily lesson plans to promote the students’ English success.

Curriculum must include components of reading, writing, speaking and listening, and progress will be measured with placement and post-testing.

The chosen candidate must also establish and maintain volunteer contacts to assist students with opportunities while endorsing the program to prospective students.

Once hired, the selected candidate must obtain Adult Education & Literacy certification and complete 20 hours of professional development per year.

The position will be discussed further at the Oct. 28 school board meeting.