Here I am, "down to the wire", to get my introduction done so this training bulletin can be released.  That expression, "down to the wire", was the answer to the newspaper JUMBLE I was trying to solve at 6:00 am today as I relaxed with my cup of coffee.  I love my native language English with all its quirky words and expressions.  I also pondered how hard it is to learn a second language - I am monolingual despite high school French  classes and many French-Canadian cousins.  Now, with an English language learner living in our home, I realize every day the challenges of maintaining a home language and learning a completely new tongue.  I hope this experience prepares me to support our state's newly drafted

Early English Language Learner Development Standards.  I hope our program can support all educators who are working with children birth to age 8 who are English language learners or dual language learners.  The developing ability of young children to communicate is key to creating relationships and learning.  Our informed support is a great gift we can give to our children. 

Have a healthy, hopeful and happy holiday season!

Joanne Gravell, Program Director