For some English learners, math fluency transcends language

Most students who are still learning English when they enter grade school score below average on math proficiency.  But for some immigrant students, who struggle to adjust to a new language and culture, math can be the great equalizer. Many discover a fluency in numbers where they lack it in English-speaking, but feel held back by the secondary emphasis on math in U.S. public schools. "While school officials might think that placing EL students in remedial math – because of our lack of fluency in English – is helping us get ahead, the reality is that for many of us – myself included – it becomes yet one more hurdle to overcome."  Read the stories of two Bakersfield students whose math skills gave them the confidence they needed to get through school, on South Kern Sol.