In a first-grade classroom at West Elementary School in Russellville, Alabama, Lindsey Johnson and Yesenia De La Rosa were teaching the same English lesson on silent letters. Johnson, the classroom teacher, was working with English-fluent children, while De La Rosa, a bilingual aide, was helping students who were still learning the language. Valentina, a new student from Guatemala, was struggling with basic concepts as she had never been exposed to letters or numbers in her home country.
The Russellville City school district recognized the need to support its growing population of English learners, many of whom have parents working in local industries. With 60 percent of the district’s students being Hispanic/Latino and roughly a third being English learners, the district created De La Rosa’s position to provide crucial support.
Johnson noted the importance of having bilingual aides like De La Rosa to help bridge the communication gap with students and understand the challenges they face. With the assistance of De La Rosa, students like Yeferson, who had significant responsibilities at home, were able to excel in their studies.
Under the leadership of Superintendent Heath Grimes, the district made significant strides in supporting English learners and promoting cultural understanding. Grimes’ efforts led to an increase in Hispanic students taking AP classes and dual enrollment courses, as well as improved parental involvement.
However, despite his success in serving English learners, Grimes faced opposition from city leadership, leading to his contract not being renewed. The decision to force Grimes out stemmed from a mix of small-town politics, resistance to immigrants, and a desire to return to the city’s previous state.
Grimes’ work in Russellville highlighted the importance of supporting English learners and promoting diversity in education. His advocacy efforts led to increased funding for English learners in the state and improved outcomes for these students. Despite facing challenges and ultimately leaving his position, Grimes’ impact on the district and the community was profound.
As the district transitions to a new superintendent and faces changes in its English learner programs, the legacy of Grimes’ work remains evident in the support and opportunities provided to Hispanic students in Russellville. The efforts to embrace diversity, support English learners, and foster a sense of community will likely continue to shape the district’s educational landscape in the years to come.
