The Power of Dual Language Learning: Wil Foor’s Journey as a Multilingual Educator

Welcome to the second episode in a series of interviews during the month of June on the Equipping ELLs podcast! We had the privilege of sitting down with Wilmede (Wil) Foor, a seasoned educator with a wealth of experience. Wil’s journey has equipped her with invaluable insights into the challenges faced by English Language Learners navigating two languages and cultures. In this blog post, we delve into Wil’s story and the lessons she shares for educators working with ELLs.

Growing Up Bilingual

Just before she was born, Wil’s parents moved from Haiti to Miami, Florida. Wil’s upbringing in a bilingual household, where both English and Creole were spoken, provides a unique perspective on language acquisition and cultural identity. Wil learned language alongside her parents and understands firsthand the complexities ELLs face as they strive to balance their cultural heritage with integration into American society. Her experiences highlight the importance of preserving one’s native language and fostering a sense of pride in one’s cultural roots.

The Importance of Language Preservation

Despite the pressures to assimilate into English-speaking environments, Wil emphasizes the significance of maintaining fluency in one’s native language. She fondly recalls her visits to Haiti, where she immersed herself in Creole and experienced the richness of her cultural heritage. Wil’s story underscores the value of preserving linguistic and cultural diversity, both in the classroom and beyond.

Empowering ELLs in the Classroom

As an educator, Wil is passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for ELLs to thrive. She shares practical strategies for teachers to embrace diversity, including incorporating cultural experiences into the curriculum and providing opportunities for students to share their heritage with their peers. Wil’s insights offer valuable guidance for educators seeking to empower ELLs on their language acquisition journey.