Susan Cromer

Cromer's program, "Using Cultural Artifacts to Build Literacy", targets ELLs (English Language Learners) and promotes active language learning among students in grades K-5. In this program, students at Paige Elementary School will observe cultural artifacts like masks or wood carvings, read supporting materials, and then work in pairs or groups to discuss their findings. Afterwards, they create their own versions of the artifacts and develop original pieces of literature like stories or poems to interpret their understandings in English. Cromer hopes to broaden an existing program by creating a "mini" traveling museum where students display their work for various schools and throughout the community. Additionally, she would like to add after-school workshops where parents and museum personnel act as resources for various cultural projects. Through ongoing engagement and interaction, ELLs get extensive practice listening, speaking, reading and writing in English. Each lesson will allow students to experience a different level of thinking while enhancing their language proficiency. Cromer resides in Niskayuna.