About MeHi, my name is Ilbra Shahbaz. I have been an EL (English Learner) teacher at Glenview District 34 for 10 years. I love my job because I get to work with great students and wonderful teachers.
I myself was an EL student in elementary school. My parents only spoke Assyrian at home, so I had to learn English at school. That experience has given me so much empathy for my EL students and families. I am very happy to be bilingual. It has been an advantage in my life because I get to help people in my community. I encourage parents to continue speaking their native language at home. Studies have shown that having a strong foundation in your native language will help you better acquire a second language. |