Growing Together
Multilingual Family Newsletter, February 2026 - Issue
Welcome 2026!
Dear CFBISD Families,
As we settle into the rhythm of the spring semester, we are excited to continue this journey alongside our families and students. This February feels particularly special, as the 2026 Winter Games provide a backdrop of global connection and excellence.
As the world gathers to celebrate sport and dedication, we are reminded of the power of perseverance—a quality we see in our students every day as they navigate their own learning goals.
These global moments provide wonderful opportunities for conversations at home. Whether you are discussing the events on TV or sharing stories of personal determination, these interactions strengthen your child’s vocabulary, confidence, and identity.
Thank you for the trust you place in us and for the vital role you play in your child’s education. We look forward to a month filled with learning, connection, and celebration.
With appreciation,
CFBISD Multilingual Department
Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD welcomes all students and is committed to fostering an inclusive and safe learning environment. We prioritize educating and protecting all children, regardless of immigration status.
If you have questions about your rights under Texas Education Agency (TEA) guidelines, visit TEA Resources for Families.
CFB families needing assistance can call 972-968-6149 or email familysupport@cfbisd.edu.
Many Languages, One Community
Join the CFBISD Multilingual Department for an evening dedicated to empowering our families and celebrating student growth!
As we enter the spring semester, your partnership is more important than ever. This interactive event is designed to provide families with practical tools and strategies to support your child’s academic journey and language development at home.
What to Expect:
Academic Strategies: Learn fun, easy ways to build academic skills in your home language and English.
Student Success Tips: Understand upcoming spring assessments and how to help your student feel confident and prepared.
Community Resources: Connect with district leaders and community partners offering support for health, literacy, and summer programs.
Family Fun: Enjoy interactive activities that bring learning to life for the whole family.
Event Details:
Date: March 27th, 2026
Time: 5–7
Location: ESDC Building
Who Should Attend: All families of Emergent Bilingual students are welcome!
TELPAS Testing Window Opens Soon February 16 - March 27, 2026
Shortly after students return from winter break, the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS) testing window will open. Emergent bilingual students are required to take the TELPAS every year, including students whose parents have declined bilingual or English as a Second Language program services.
TELPAS measures the progress students make in learning English from year to year. To help your student prepare, access the Texas Assessment Practice and Released Tests website. Here, your child can go through sample assessments by selecting “Practice Tests Login.” Practicing ahead of time can be especially helpful for students who are new to TELPAS or who feel anxious about testing. It also allows them to become familiar with tools used during the test, such as text-to-speech and other language supports.
A new and insightful video for parents and educators, “Benefits of Bilingualism,” is now available on the Parents and Families webpage of the TXEL portal! The video shows why learning more than one language is such a great skill for life. It encourages families to keep helping their children grow as bilingual learners. To reach more communities, the video is offered in English, Arabic, French, Mandarin, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Watch it to see how speaking two languages can build stronger communication and open more doors in the future.
A 2025 report from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) explains that learning more than one language helps students do better in school and makes communities stronger!
Creating a College-Going Culture at Home and School
Getting ready for college starts early. It’s not just about filling out applications, but also building a mindset. A “college-going culture” means helping students believe that college is possible and giving them support to get there. Families and schools can work together to build this mindset every day.
At School:
Parents can encourage their children to join school activities that build confidence and teamwork, like sports, service clubs, or academic groups. These experiences help students find their interests and learn skills that will help them in college and careers. Families can also remind students to talk with school counselors, college advisors, or trusted teachers about their goals.
At Home:
Parents and caregivers can also build a college mindset at home. Talk with your child about what subjects they enjoy and what jobs they might like one day. A college visit is closer and easier than you think! You can explore local colleges online, visit campuses, or meet with college staff virtually.
Explore more:
The Texas College Access Network has great tools to help prepare you and your child for college. It includes guides for first-generation college students, resources to track readiness, and programs that connect schools and advisors. When families and schools work together, students gain the confidence and direction to plan for a bright future.
We’d love to hear from you!
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