Case
Using translator to communicate with ESOL students

I recently had two ESOL students join my reading group who are Spanish speaking. Since they are still trying to learn English, they usually communicate in Spanish, which I am not fluent in. So I have resorted to using a translator app on my phone to understand better what they are saying and show them how to say it in English. Is this a proper method to be using or should I find another way?

Solution #1
While this is a solution that can be used, there are better alternatives. If you have ELL students who speak both English well and Spanish they could be paired with the student who you are trying to communicate with. Translators can sometimes not get things exactly so if the school has a teachers aide who speaks Spanish they can assist when available as well. I would use a translator on the phone if there was not other resources, because at the end of the day you have to use what you have to communicate with and teach the student equally as all other students.
Solution #2
I feel using a translation app is a beneficial accommodation for Teachers of ESOL students to ensure students fully understand the question and what is being asked when completing assignments. I would recommend having the student use a school device as a translation aide for students in the early stages of the SLA process. I would also recommend providing students with a Spanish-to-English dictionary and modifying your lesson plans to incorporate visuals, realia, and even providing the instruction in both English and Spanish. The modifications should be reevaluated and adjusted as they reach each stage of SLA.
Solution #3
No that is not a proper solution. If your class has bilingual programs students should be paired with a children of the ELL native language. Use things such as body language and visual and audio books, but a student should never have access to a teacher's personal phone or computer.