Newcomer students at Santa Maria High School wrapped up their Migrant Multilingual Education Program (MMEP) summer school last week with an outdoor celebration of learning and connection at Santa Maria High School.

Students who are new to the United States came together with bilingual instructional aides and CalSoap tutors to applaud their achievements in language acquisition, math skills, and social-emotional wellness.

Students socialized with peers from more advanced English proficiency levels, dancing, taking photos, and participating in activities, all while practicing their conversational English in a relaxed setting.

A highlight of the afternoon was making s’mores, an activity that combined cultural experience and hands-on math practice. Math teacher Erasmo Canongo’s students calculated fractions as part of the s’mores preparation.

“It was a fun way to see math come alive,” said one student. “I never thought fractions could taste this good.”

Students of Maritza Olguín, Pioneer Valley High English/EGS teacher talked about the importance of interacting with the broader student body.

“This summer I learned not just English, but also how to feel more confident talking to other students,” said a participant. “Today helped me make new friends I can talk to when school starts again.”

“It’s vital for our newcomers to feel part of the larger school community while developing their English skills. Events like this give them a chance to practice language in a natural, supportive environment,” Olguín said.

“Seeing them apply what they’ve learned, both academically and socially, is inspiring,” Canongo sai. “Today was about more than just math and English; it was about building confidence and belonging.”