Senior Alondra Sarabia is one of several ENL students who have joined the TUFSD family in the past few years; but how she has adjusted to her new life and community is nothing short of remarkable.
Despite not knowing English when she first moved to the United States from Ecuador three years ago, Alondra was determined to achieve the same academic success she had in her home country. This meant learning a whole new language while simultaneously learning core subject matter as a sophomore in high school.
Art teacher Kristina Greco formed a connection with Alondra early on. “She has a strong drive, and a desire to do well. Alondra was committed to learning the language, and was willing to put in the work to get it done.”
At times it felt overwhelming, but Alondra stayed focused on her goal. She leaned on her support system at George F. Baker, which included ENL teacher Aubrey Fowler. “Ms. Fowler is like a second mother to me, she helped me so much.”
Joining the volleyball team offered her an opportunity to make friends who were able to translate for her. She started to pick up more and more English, and her grades improved. Volleyball coach and English teacher Michelle Hines was astounded at Alondra’s progress. “I have never seen a student work so hard, not only to master a new language, but also use the same attitude to be successful in all of her classes.“
In her junior year, Alondra enrolled in the EMS program at the Orange-Ulster BOCES Career & Technical (CTEC) Health Careers Academy, where she discovered her passion for healthcare. As a senior, she is currently enrolled in the OU BOCES Dentistry Careers program, achieving Honor Roll status.
Teacher Anne Castellanos says that other ENL students look to Alondra as an example. “She has set the bar. Now they know that this task that can feel impossible, really can be done.”
Alondra plans to continue her education this fall at Rockland Community College pursuing a Nursing degree, making her the first in her family to attend a post-secondary institution. She says will miss her GFB family immensely, but is excited about what is ahead. “I would like to meet Alondra of the future, and see if she achieves everything she wants.”
With her positive spirit and fierce determination, there is no doubt that she will.