Josh Milani always knew he wanted to be a teacher, but ESL in particular had a place close to his heart because of his younger sister.
“(She’s) from another country,” Milani said.
His sister, Maya, was adopted from Guatemala when she was eight months old. Milani’s parents brought her home on Milani’s ninth birthday. Even as a baby, it was clear Maya had noticed that their language was different than what she was used to.
Milani said that she was very slow to speak at first, which worried his family, but the doctor ensured that Maya was simply adjusting to her new surroundings. Sure enough, she started speaking full sentences in English months later.
This experience was what inspired him to get his ESL certification, so that he could support multilingual learners who came to build their lives in the United States.
“Growing up with her gave me a deep appreciation for different languages and cultures.
Milani has been in the Baldwin-Whitehall School District for three years, though he had worked with the district as a substitute before that. This year, he is teaching ESL Freshman Seminar in the mornings before heading to McAnnulty to teach kindergarteners in ESL as well as STEAM and Library – or, as they call it, “Imagination Station.”
Both outside and inside school, Milani enjoys reading.
“I truly believe books can open doors to the future and spark endless opportunities,” he said.
His love for reading translates to his teaching style as well. Books often help students discover new opportunities and learn new words, which Milani loves to see. Helping students experience the same excitement from reading is what is most rewarding, Milani said.
Milani believes that the Baldwin-Whitehall School District is where he was meant to be.
“The students, families, and staff have all made me feel so welcomed and supported over the years. I can’t imagine a better place to teach and make a difference in the lives of others,” Milani said.
