In DeKalb County, English Language Learner instructors teach, translate and calm fears

By: Anna Barrett

Outlets: Alabama Reflector

Published: February 16, 2026

Words: 2,018

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 1 day ago

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COLLINSVILLE — Elizabeth Barrientos went through DeKalb County Schools in northern Alabama as a native Spanish speaker.

Born in Gadsden, Barrientos and her family have been in Collinsville for about 30 years after moving there from Mexico. She has an older sister and two younger brothers, and her parents work at a local chicken farm.

“Back then, my parents viewed English as a success here in the States. I had to learn it quick,” …

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