A summer program at Alto Park Elmentary is more than just a chance for educators to learn how to teach English to speakers of other languages — it’s an oppurtunity for children as well.

“It’s a win, win situation,” said Chang Pu, director of the program. “A lot of teachers feel they are not prepared to deal with ESOL students… and the kids get to have fun while learning English.”

The Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages Summer Camp is part of the English for Speakers of Other Languages endorsement program at Berry College, which adds to Georgia teaching certificate programs.

The collaboration between Berry College and Alto Park Elementary School allows teacher-education students to gain firsthand field experience of teaching, while helping ESOL learners improve English language proficiency in a fun and meaningful way.

“Once a teacher completes our program, they’ll be ESOL certified,” said Pu. “And, it’s a great opportunity to learn more about culture.”

The TESOL Summer Camp has approximately 80 local children receiving instruction from 12 teacher education students who are working toward bachelor's or master's degrees at Berry. Participants will receive an ESOL endorsement from the state.

Beth Cochran, a preservice teacher at Berry College, found that the camp was a great way for her to learn and interact with ESOL students.

“I feel better prepared after getting first-hand experience,” said Cochran. “I’ve been able to learn techniques such as using a lot of visuals and using a lot of physical objects the children can interact with.”

As a part of the two-week summer program, all the children and their parents will be going to Berry College for a tour and activities Friday.

“It’s an opportunity for children to think beyond high school,” said Pu.