After the Election: Ideas for Teachers of ELLs

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As they have been throughout the entire presidential campaign, teachers are on the front lines when it comes to answering students’ questions about the election and its results, giving them an opportunity to discuss what they see in the news, helping them think about how big decisions may affect their lives, and managing interactions among students representing different points of view and backgrounds.

In this new resource section, we have collected some helpful lesson plans as well as discussion guides for talking about the results of the 2016 election. We also offer suggestions for creating welcoming schools for all students. For more ideas, see the message below from Colorín Colorado contributor Kristina Robertson. To see related resources, visit our Election 2016 section.

A Special Message for ELL Teachers

From Kristina Robertson (sent to her staff following the election):

This election included a difficult conversation about immigrants and immigration. Our students may be worried that some of the plans discussed will be enacted and cause harm in their lives. Please be sensitive as students bring up election results, wish to vent, or may act out in some way. Listen and acknowledge their feelings, but redirect them to focus on the positive things in their lives that will continue to be there — supportive family, educators, and a school community. Be careful with your own words and discussions that students may overhear and cause more anxiety.

Depending on the student's age and ability to understand the U.S. democratic process, you can offer reassurance that while candidates say many things while campaigning, these campaign promises don’t represent the wishes of all the people of the U.S. and there are many Americans who welcome immigrants and want to help them. This is a good time to remember that no matter for whom one voted in this election, there will be strong feelings on both sides, and a need for all of us to be our best selves and work for unity and peace. If you have students who need further assistance, check in with bilingual liaisons who are available to help.