The English as a New Language (ENL) Program is a New York State program aimed to help with English language acquisition. Students receive English language development instruction, including the use of their primary language as support. Some of the goals of the Port Washington School District’s ENL program are to help students develop communication skills in English, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing. These skills are developed with the goal of fostering creative and innovative thinkers that embrace diversity. The program helps our school community develop and understand its global citizenship.
Many students who have been a part of this program have contributed to the school community in many ways. One of the many contributions can be found on the Schreiber Debate Team. Sophomore Kamila Drozcowicz is one of these students who has also competed in various distinguished tournaments.
“In 4th grade, coming into a completely new school in which I didn’t fully understand the language was definitely a bit scary. The ENL program was absolutely incredible, and I was surrounded by amazing teachers who helped me every step of the way. I made many great memories and countless friends, many of whom I am still close with today,” said Drozcowicz.
In looking at how the ENL program fostered her growth and development, she also reflected on her experience by sharing how much it has allowed her to mature.
“Back then, I never thought I’d be able to become a member of the debate team, let alone attend such prestigious, national tournaments. These competitions, like Yale or Princeton, are quite intimidating at first and there’s definitely a ton of work, effort, and time that goes into the preparation…Through attending these tournaments, I have grown a lot, not only as a debater, but also as an individual,” said Drozcowicz.
Furthermore, the ENL program has provided significant support in learning English to many individuals, Drozcowicz among them.
“I’m extremely proud of these students, and their progress is a testament to the importance of this program. I hope this program is here to stay,” said Mr. Sepulvida.
Another debate team member who has been a part of the ENL program is sophomore Yerin Park. In her experience with the ENL program and the Princeton debate she feels like her debating abilities have noticeably increased.
“The Princeton Debate Tournament was a wholesome experience for my partner, Elina Kamensky and I. Surrounded by many experienced debaters and we were able to compete at an entirely new level. We faced teams from places like Massachusetts, Toronto, and Florida – and each team had different debating styles and arguments. Although we came across challenges, we tried to make the most out of it and learn from each round. With the guidance of incredible teachers: Mr. Gennaro Fontano, Mr. Andrew Vinella, Mr. John Davis, and Ms. Michal Cohan, we deepened our understanding of the topic and were able to step up our game for the upcoming season,” said Park.
Moreover, the ENL program specifically has grown her proficiency in English, leading to more confidence as both a debater and an individual.
“The ENL program set a foundation in my English learning journey and was a key part of my growth for the first couple of years. It was a place where I could be comfortable and allowed me to grow. My ENL teacher, Mr. Davis, encouraged me to challenge myself and tried to introduce me to the language as best as he could. The program helped me as an individual and as a debater I am today. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and proud of how far I’ve come,” said Park.
Debate and public speaking have made a big impact on ENL students at Schreiber. For students who are learning English, being part of the debate team gives them the chance to use the language in a real, active way. It helps build confidence, especially when they start with smaller practice debates and work their way up to bigger competitions. This has helped students who are interested in debate and are part of the ENL program learn and grow into better English speakers.
Along the way, they pick up new vocabulary just by researching topics and preparing arguments. It also teaches them to think more critically, organize their ideas clearly, and express themselves in an extremely convincing way. Some students have said that debating both sides of an issue has helped them see different perspectives and has made them more open minded.
Overall, debate has helped ENL students become stronger, more confident speakers, and shows how they carry themselves inside and outside the classroom. These students have shown tremendous growth and challenges along the way, and the ENL program has allowed them to be able to participate in activities that they thought they wouldn’t be able to do, such as debate.
“I first taught Yerin from South Korea and Kamila from Poland when they arrived at Manorhaven in 4th grade—two bright girls learning not only a new language, but a new life. In Sept., I saw them again at the Yale Invitational, poised and confident, their voices steady in debate. I wasn’t surprised—only deeply moved. Greatness often begins quietly, in the courage to learn. I’m so proud of these young women,” said current Manorhaven ENL teacher Mr. John Davis.