It’s not fair to say that “verbal ability” = “school achievement.” Just because a student doesn’t speak a certain way or doesn’t use academic language yet, that doesn’t mean they’re not smart or learning. We need to recognize that students show understanding in different ways especially those learning English or using more than one language.

I feel like we still see so many gaps in resources and support, especially in schools serving CLD or low-income communities.

Any school, no matter where it is, can support students learn at high levels if the right practices are put in place.