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This presentation provides a detailed overview of Newcomer programs.
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This presentation explores strategies for designing holistic intake and initial screening processes for newly arrived multilingual learners, including students with limited or interrupted formal education (SLIFE). Participants will learn practical approaches for assessing literacy, academic background, language proficiency, and student needs in order to support effective placement, early interventions, family engagement, and long-term student success.
About the Presenters:
Alexandra Barmakian is a 9th Grade ELD Teacher at the International High School at Langley Park in Maryland, specializing in creating inclusive, high-achievement environments for non-native English speakers. She is a dual English and ESOL certified advocate for educational equity, focusing on building trusting relationships and boosting engagement among diverse populations. A doctoral candidate at Kansas State University, her research works to examine how secondary educators can leverage the social, academic, and linguistic capital of Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE).
Clara Allsup teaches 9th and 10th grade English at the International High School at Langley Park in Maryland, a specialty program that serves multilingual learners. She is a National Board-Certified Teacher in English as a New Language and has recently been named the 2026-27 Prince George's County Public Schools Teacher of the Year. Ms. Allsup is dedicated to ensuring immigrant and refugee students have equitable access to rigorous, culturally responsive education. In addition to providing professional learning for educators and leaders, she designs her school’s master schedule to expand individualized pathways of academic support for multilingual learners. As chair of her school's Recruitment and Intake Committee, she ensures newly enrolled students are connected to critical services to holistically support their needs. Ms. Allsup is currently pursuing an Ed.D. at the University of Maryland, researching ways school systems can better support students with limited and interrupted formal education.
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