The East Islip Middle School library was filled with pride and celebration during this year’s Commanding Night on Oct. 15, honoring 18 English as a New Language students who achieved the Commanding level on the New York State English proficiency exam, the NYSESLAT. Reaching this milestone signifies that students have tested out of the ENL program – an achievement that marks both an ending and a new beginning. Unlike most academic departments that hope to see their students continue in advanced coursework, ENL educators work toward the bittersweet goal of preparing their students to no longer need them.

This year’s accomplishments were especially remarkable, with 19% of districtwide English Language Learners reaching the Commanding level. Students from first graders to seniors – including Connetquot Elementary School’s Daniel Chicas Lopez, Bruce Duchimaza Coneo and Sehajleen Kaur; John F. Kennedy Elementary School’s Alexia Cordero Montero, Alison Jimenez Rendon and Juan Vanegas Tello; East Islip Middle School’s Jadhelin Almonte Garcia, Matias Camino Vasquez, Nehemias Chacon and Ytzeel Guarniz Ling; and East Islip High School’s Walter Claudio, Alyson Dominguez Tapia, Allison Marca Ramon, Zulal Oz, Lilith Perez Garcia, Sean Plasencia Espinal, Ashley Sanchez and Christopher Vasquez Garcia were recognized for their hard work, perseverance, and growth. 

The celebration was well attended by the proud students’ families, siblings, administrators and teachers. A particularly moving moment came when a former ELL student addressed the audience, sharing her inspiring journey of coming to America, learning English and finding a sense of belonging within the ENL community.

In addition to honoring student success, the event also welcomed new ELL families to the district. Families participated in tutorials led by technology staff on the online student monitoring system and received an overview of the ENL department’s programs and supports from teachers. The evening served as both a heartfelt farewell to students reaching new heights in language proficiency and a warm introduction for those just beginning their journey.  

“This success reflects not only on the determination of our students, but also the hard work of our teachers, who guided them each step of the way,” Director of World Languages, ENL and Assessments Christian Seifert said. “This achievement is about more than language. It’s about facing challenges, embracing new opportunities and and proving that with effort and heart, anything is possible, especially in this great country. Each of you has shown that you can not only adapt but thrive in a new language and culture. We are so proud of you, and can’t wait to see all the great things you will do in the future.”