The Maine Department of Education formally recognized two Biddeford educators for their outstanding contributions to the field of English Language (EL) Instruction. JFK teacher Erin Behen, BPS teacher Deb Thompson, and BMS instructor Patsy Gendron received an extraordinary commendation from the Department for their commitment to the development of state EL standards and commitment to the profession.
Of Gendron, the Department wrote to Supt. Ray and the citizens of Biddeford, "In this most challenging and unique of school years, we are pleased to recognize Patricia for her dedication and commitment to increasing her depth of knowledge in order to better serve culturally and linguistically diverse students and the school community at large."
Thompson and Behen received parallel and similarly-worded accolades. For nearly a year, with all of the stains of remote instruction, Erin and Deb "actively participated in the Department’s [work sessions for professionals], which included presentations and guest speakers on these topics and many more: virtual learning for ESOL students, family engagement, assessment, evaluating data, social and emotional learning, advocating for equity, early childhood development, resources and strategies for teaching ESOL students, welcoming newcomers, the Maine Seal of Biliteracy, and the WIDA 2020 ELD Standards Framework."
In the last decade, the number of students attending Biddeford Schools for whom English is a second language has increased 400%. "The City of Biddeford in general--and our schools in particular--benefit tremendously from the diversity of our citizenry," said Director of Operations Chris Indorf. "Biddeford is a welcoming community, and we have the great honor and privilege of serving a more diverse student population than all other schools in York county combined. As the district's coordinator of English Language Programming, I technically supervise Patsy and Deb, and Erin, but they are among our very best teachers, and 'supervision' hardly characterizes our partnership. I am grateful for their leadership at the state level, and their program stewardship right here in Biddeford."
