Purpose
To enable ELLs to become competent in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing English.
To provide ELLs with equal educational access and benefits.
To give ELLs the opportunity to experience academic success while they learn English as a second language.
To build knowledge and learning in content areas as they acquire English.
To help students celebrate their cultural heritage and increase self-assurance and confidence.
To comply with Federal/ State legal regulations concerning the education of English language learners.
Implementation
Everest Academy uses content-based instruction (CBI) model that emphasizes learning about something rather than just learning about language.
Instruction is sheltered wherein ESL students are taught the same curriculum as their grade level peers with individualized modifications.
Students are taught in small homogeneous as well as large heterogeneous groups. Technology is integrated to enhance the educational experience.
Benefits
ESL services help students learn English as quickly as possible.
ESL students, teachers, and campuses benefit from TEA offered resources for ESL students.
ESL teachers provide instructional accommodations.
Qualifiers
Students speaking language other than English as documented in Home Language Survey and international students are given an Oral Language Proficiency Test (OLPT). Those scoring LEP (Limited English Proficient) are eligible for ESL services. Additional qualifying data may be collected through administration of IOWA ITBS or Stanford 10.
Parent Involvement
Parents of ESL students are encouraged to
Learn more about the ESL program and keep updated with their student’s progress.
Share information with teachers regarding culture and language and to serve as translators and liaisons.
Participate in the PTO and in other activities at school.
Support student participation in the program.