214@100: District 214's front door

Newly arrived immigrant students with little or no knowledge of English are welcomed into District 214 through the innovative Newcomer Center, a program that boasts small class sizes, one-on-one teacher help and a technology-infused curriculum. On any given day, students from more than a dozen countries talk with each other and hone their English skills thanks to iPads and the creativity of their teachers. Students can instantly translate conversations, complete video projects together in English, master their new language and connect with the comprehensive District 214 home schools they'll soon attend - watching events like homecoming coronations via a live stream. Students typically remain in the program for one or two semesters while becoming fluent in English, before transferring to their home high school.

• 214@100 is a celebration of District 214's centennial; 100 people, places, things and events that have shaped its unique history. To contribute ideas, email us at district214@dailyherald.com.