English Language Learner (ELL) Program
The English Language Learner (ELL) Program, supported in part by Title III Federal funds, is designed to assist students who are non-English speaking or limited English proficient. Our goal is for these students to learn English as quickly as possible so that they may achieve the same academic standards as their native English speaking peers. Licensed and qualified teachers work with students to increase their language skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. Professional development is provided by school staff to support the language development and content learning of English language learners. In addition, support is provided for the parents to be fully engaged in their child's education by providing them with information and translation services.
For more information regarding the English Language Learner Program at your LISA Academy campus, ask your front office staff for your ESOL Coordinator's contact information. If you would like to get more information about LISA Academy ESOL Program, please see this official LISA Academy ESOL Program guide.
Overview
LISA Academy values diversity and welcomes children from all over the world. Our goal is to encourage English language learning and enhance each child's educational experience.
All families fill out the Home Language Survey when they enroll their children. This asks what language the student first learned. If it is not English, or if there is information that indicates another language, the staff assesses the student’s English skills. Based on the results, the student may qualify for ELL services.
Students that qualify for ELL services take an annual assessment of their English skills. This test is called ELPA 21. It is an online test. They continue to qualify for ELL services until they reach a high level of English proficiency and meet additional state criteria. The length of time to gain proficiency is unique to each child.
Every student that qualifies for ELL will receive services for ESL. These services are based on individual need and include pull out classes and inclusion in mainstream classrooms, where teachers receive support to address the unique needs of the ELL student.
ESOL Teachers use teaching methods where they do not need to speak ELL's native language for the language acquisition to happen and be effective.
ELL Program Objectives
| English Language Proficiency in reading, writing, listening & speaking | Pull out classes are offered for each student at their individual level. Learning targets based on ELD standards by proficiency level. Taught by certified or qualified teacher. | Annual Test scores. Results from online resources. |
| Academic literacy & content knowledge | Teacher collaboration, teacher training, administrative support for teachers. | Core-class grades. MAP scores. Benchmark scores. |
| High school and beyond Student retention and continuing education |
Academic support for all high school students. Collaboration with counselors and advisory program. | ELL graduation rates. ELL student retention. |
| Community involvement | ELL open house. Ongoing dialogue with parents, teachers, counselors and interpreters. Language Festival, Multicultural Fair, Language competitions for native speakers. | Conference attendance. Open house attendance. |
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Parent Involvement
- ELL Open House
- Ongoing dialogue with parents, teachers, counselors and interpreters
- Bilingual mentors
- Staff training
- ELL Parent Fact Sheet
ELL Assessment
The English Language Proficiency Assessment for the 21st Century (ELPA21) tests English Learners (EL) to determine their level of proficiency in the English language.
