MR WEATHERS     ESOL     Kindergarder / 1st   Grade

Dear Parents/Students

      My name is Mr. Weathers and I am from Los Angeles, California. I began working at Belmont in September 2000. Before I received my Bachelor's degree in Political Science at GeorgeWashingtonUniversity in WashingtonD.C., I spent five years in the United States Air Force as an Aerospace Ground Equipment Mechanic. After receiving my degree from George Washington, I was a business manager for three years. I entered California State University Dominguez Hills and received my California Teaching Credential in 1994. For the next five years, I taught first and second grade in InglewoodCalifornia. In 1999, I enrolled in BerneUniversity for a summer research project where I traveled to St. Kitts in the Eastern Caribbean to study the education programs of St. Kitts and surrounding islands. Since coming to Belmont Elementary I have helped start Math and Science Specialty Program and have taught at the fourth and fifth grade level in the Math and Science Specialty Program .At Belmont I have Been the Science Lab Teacher and lastly for the last two years a regular fifth grade teacher.

     As a teacher, I believe English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) hold the same rights, privileges, and responsibilities as other students in the United States. I believe that the ESOL Program is a necessary component of the education of all students who cannot succeed in the mainstream academic classes due to their limited English proficiency. I will provide ESOL services in a timely manner in order to ensure educational success at Belmont Elementary.

     All students can learn English, if given an opportunity. The framework through which students are taught English As a Second Language incorporate developmentally, linguistically, and culturally appropriate opportunities in order to ensure successful social and classroom interactions. The ESOL student will learn Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills in English. This will lead to self- confident expression, the ability to cope successfully with daily situations, and a meaningful involvement in co-curricular activities. The student will begin to develop Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency in English. This will lead to meaningful involvement in mainstream curriculum and an ability to acquire, integrate, and utilize knowledge in order to be a positive and productive member of the world community.

     The student will develop an appreciation of and respect for his or her own cultural heritage and that of others. The student will develop a pride in bilingualism and/or multilingualism. This will lead to esteem for cooperative relationships with all people.

     The ESOL teacher serves as a liaison between the ESOL students, their parents and the school community. In this role, teachers become advocates for this population as well as resources and second language experts for school staff and administration.

Ways you can continue to assist me:

Check Homework daily

Sign the agenda daily

Visit the public library often

Regular attendance is necessity!!!

Homework is an important responsibility!!!

Students must read every night for at least   15 minutes!-Seven Days A Week!!

Read to your child

     I am enjoying working with your child! If you have any questions please visit, e-mail weatheae@pwcs.edu or call (703) 494-4945. Together we can make this year your child's best school year ever