There are many children at APS who benefit from our English as a Second Language (ESL) program. The program provides specialized or modified instruction in the English language and in academic courses to eligible students so they acquire the necessary skills they need to meet academic standards, move on to the next grade and/or graduate.
ESL teachers meet with students on a weekly or daily basis, monitoring their progress and consulting with the classroom teacher throughout the school year. Lessons are planned according to the needs of each child.
The amount of time in the program varies for each student, normally one to five years but sometimes longer. It is the goal of the ESL program to help students gain the ability to do grade-level work without support and, ultimately, be able to exit the program.
Who is eligible for ESL Services?
Eligible individuals are those not born in the United States, whose native language is something other than English or who come from environments where a language other than English is dominant.
How is eligibility for ESL services determined?
Within 30 days of enrollment, students who are identified as potentially eligible on a Home Language Survey are then tested to determine if they are English Language Learners (ELL). ELLs are students who are unable to communicate fluently or learn effectively in English and who often come from non-English-speaking homes and backgrounds.
Assessment will examine a student's skills in reading, writing, listening, speaking and comprehending English.
Every effort is made to complete the screening in a timely manner.
How is grade-level placement determined?
Assignment to the appropriate grade level will take into account the following factors:
- educational history
- student's age
- English language experiences
- parent/guardian preference
- six-year-old without kindergarten experience
Is it permissible for an ESL student to be a part of more than one program?
Yes.
What if an interpreter is needed?
Interpreters may be needed at the time of enrollment and at other times throughout the year. However, not every language is represented by an ESL interpreter. Interpreters who are available may come to the schools on a limited basis. Please call the ESL supervisor to request their services. Teachers and tutors are not to contact them directly.
For more information on Ohio ESL programs, please visit The Ohio Department of Education.
