Workshop Goal:

To equip parents/guardians of English Language Learners (ELLs) with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to effectively advocate for their children’s educational needs and success.

Target Audience:

Parents/guardians of ELL students enrolled in Kisumu County schools.

Workshop Duration:

60-75 minutes

Workshop Outline:

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

• Welcome participants and establish rapport.
• Briefly introduce the concept of advocacy and its importance in supporting ELL students.
• Outline the workshop objectives and agenda.

2. Understanding the Role of Parents/Guardians as Advocates (15 minutes)

• Discuss the key responsibilities of parents/guardians in advocating for their children’s education.
• Explain the benefits of effective advocacy, such as improved academic outcomes and stronger parent-teacher relationships.
• Address common misconceptions about advocacy and dispel any fears or concerns.

3. Building Effective Communication Skills (15 minutes)

• Provide practical tips for communicating effectively with teachers, administrators, and school counselors.
• Discuss the importance of active listening, asking clarifying questions, and expressing concerns respectfully.
• Practice role-playing scenarios to help participants develop their communication skills.

4. Navigating the Educational System (15 minutes)

• Explain the structure of the Kenyan education system and the specific challenges faced by ELL students.
• Discuss the rights and responsibilities of parents/guardians under Kenyan education laws.
• Provide information on available resources and support services for ELL students and their families.

5. Advocacy Strategies and Tools (10 minutes)

• Introduce various advocacy strategies, such as attending school meetings, contacting school officials, and forming parent advocacy groups.
• Discuss the importance of documenting concerns and progress to support advocacy efforts.
• Share examples of successful advocacy campaigns and lessons learned.

6. Question and Answer Session (10 minutes)

• Allow participants to ask questions and address any remaining concerns.
• Provide additional resources or contact information for further support.

Workshop Materials:

• Handouts or worksheets with key information and tips
• Visual aids (e.g., presentations, posters) to enhance understanding
• Role-playing scenarios for practice
• Contact information for relevant educational agencies and support organizations

Facilitator Qualifications:

• Experience working with ELL students and their families
• Knowledge of the Kenyan education system and relevant laws
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment

Evaluation:

• Conduct a brief survey at the end of the workshop to gather feedback on the content, delivery, and overall effectiveness.
• Use the evaluation results to improve future workshops and identify areas for further support.

By providing parents/guardians with the necessary knowledge and skills, this workshop aims to empower them to become effective advocates for their ELL children and contribute to their academic success.