Learning English

Re “Learning English,” May 31.

Were there any students other than Hispanic who were asked about English as a Second Language classes? It was a one-sided article.

The following are concerns I have with current bilingual education:

* Are we holding back the child from learning English quickly? My Hispanic husband knew few words in English before kindergarten years ago. By the end of his first year, he was speaking English.

* About three years ago my sister substituted in Ventura County school systems. One day she taught, or I should say baby-sat, in a bilingual class. The person who actually taught was a Spanish-speaking mother. Did she have a degree? I’ll bet she didn’t. During the class the children were asked to write an assignment. One of the children commented, “I’m doing mine in English.” He handed in a paper written in English. Why was he in a bilingual class?

* Hispanic children are being separated from the masses and treated as if they aren’t smart enough to learn English quickly. If this isn’t so, then why aren’t other nationalities treated the same?

ELAINE F. NAVARRO

Ventura