In just four years, Ericka and Emma have gone from arriving at Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School speaking no English to becoming confident, bilingual fourth graders who thrive academically, creatively, and socially. The twin sisters are now known not only for their bright smiles and growing talents, but for the kindness and empathy they show to others, especially students who are new to the school or learning English for the first time.

Their story is a reminder that success doesn’t look the same for every child. For Ericka and Emma, success has meant finding their voice, their confidence, and, most importantly, a deep sense of belonging. Their journey reflects the way Croton schools help every student feel seen, supported, and valued for who they are and who they are becoming.

When they first arrived in Croton as Kindergartners, they were stepping into a new world. They understood little English and were adjusting to a new culture, community, and classroom. And, as their teachers recall, they were also not yet accustomed to being in a school environment. “They needed to get their school legs,” said Kindergarten teacher Ms. Weiss, “to build the energy and stamina to get through the day.” What they found was a school ready to embrace them with warmth, patience, and encouragement, a place where they could begin to belong.

“It was scary sometimes, but it was also fun early on,” Ericka recalled.
Emma added, “It helped that we had each other, especially on the playground when we could only talk to one another.”

With the steady guidance of their teachers and the care of their classmates, Ericka and Emma quickly began to thrive. Their English as a New Language teacher, Janet Cueto, said their progress has been remarkable, academically and personally, and that the support of the entire school community has played a vital role in their success.

“These girls have been on a beautiful journey,” Ms. Cueto said. “From the very beginning, I’ve watched them work hard, absorb information, and truly enjoy learning. They’ve achieved not only academically, but through developing a deep sense of belonging. Here at CET, we’ve nurtured them and provided what they needed, but they’ve given us something lasting in return: they’ve made an impact on all of us.”

Their mother shares that sense of pride and gratitude. “I am impressed that they have learned such good work habits,” she said. “I’m surprised and happy by how much they have learned in such a short period of time, and how well they are doing with reading and writing in English. I also notice how the teachers take care of and worry about their students.”

That sense of belonging is something the girls now share with others. Remembering what it felt like to be new, they make it their mission to support classmates who are still learning English or adjusting to school life. “It feels generous to help,” said Ericka. “We want to be respectful when helping new English language learners.” Teachers often see them translating directions from English to Spanish and helping classmates understand assignments. “We both have jobs in our classrooms, and we want to do a good job for our teacher,” Emma said.

Beyond the classroom, both girls play in band and strings, love art - especially drawing - and take great pride in their spelling and writing. “I’m good at spelling and writing,” Ericka said. “I look to Emma to help me with my math.” Emma added, “Ericka helps me get motivated to start my homework.”

At home, Ericka enjoys helping her family cook. “I help my mom make salads, and she says that she’s teaching us to be independent,” she said.

Mrs. Bianchi recalls another milestone: “It was just into their second year when they brought me a joke book to read. They could read every word, and they understood the humor. We all laughed together. It was such a joyful moment, but also a profound one because I could clearly see the enormous progress they had made.”

Though they haven’t decided exactly what they want to be when they grow up, their ideas—a doctor, police officer, or firefighter—reflect their desire to help others. When asked what they would say to another student who is new to the school or even the country, they offered thoughtful encouragement:

“It’s going to be scary at first, but it gets better quickly and then you feel more comfortable. And now it just feels great.”

Ericka and Emma’s story is one of courage and connection, but above all, it’s about belonging. It shows what happens when a community not only welcomes new students, but helps them discover their place within it. Through care, patience, and shared understanding, Ericka and Emma found their voice, and, in doing so, made everyone around them feel a little more connected too.  Please join us in congratulating these outstanding Tigers on their success!