This episode of The Hive: Bee in the Know highlights how Canavan Elementary responded to significant language development needs in a kindergarten class impacted by the pandemic. Despite high preschool attendance, data revealed gaps in foundational language skills, including vocabulary, comprehension, and verbal expression, along with an increase in English Learners.

The team emphasized that language is the foundation for all learning, influencing students’ ability to follow directions, communicate, and succeed academically and socially. In response, teachers embedded language development throughout the entire school day using strategies such as rich conversations, interactive read-alouds, and purposeful play.

Support was strengthened through targeted small-group instruction and collaboration  ...