The Mount Pleasant Community School Board meeting opened Monday night with a celebration of students who have officially exited the district’s English Learner (EL) program after demonstrating proficiency on the state English assessment.
“This is a huge achievement,” said EL instructor. “These students aren’t just learning basic conversation—they’re reading textbooks, writing essays, and solving math problems in a new language.”
Teachers from Van Allen, the Middle School, and the High School joined to recognize the teamwork behind the program’s success, highlighting bilingual staff, family partnerships, and the resilience of the students. The district currently serves about 150 English Learners representing 9 different languages.
Students shared their own stories and goals; A first grader hopes to become a nurse, One student wants to be a soccer player, and an eighth grader spoke about gaining confidence through the program and now serves as a Council President.
Teachers explained that after exiting, students are monitored for two years to ensure continued success. As the board congratulated the group, families and staff gathered afterward in the cafeteria to celebrate.
“We’re not just celebrating English proficiency,” one teacher said. “We’re celebrating future leaders and global citizens who have already shown resilience, intelligence, and determination.”