As educators committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students, we are proud to introduce our English Language Learner (ELL) Program. Our program is designed to meet the unique needs of students whose primary language is not English, ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to excel academically and socially.
Purpose and Goals
Our ELL Program aims to:
1. Facilitate Language Acquisition: We strive to help students develop proficiency in English, enabling them to engage fully in academic activities and communicate effectively with peers and teachers.
2. Cultural Integration: We foster an environment where cultural diversity is celebrated, helping students feel valued and included within our school community.
3. Academic Success: We support ELL students in achieving academic success by providing tailored instruction and support services to meet their individual needs.
Identification:
Students eligible for our ELL Program are identified through language proficiency assessments and enrollment information. Upon enrollment, students and their families are asked to provide information regarding their primary language and language proficiency.
Services
Our ELL Program offers a range of services, including:
1. ESL (English as a Second Language) Instruction: Qualified ESL teachers provide targeted language instruction to develop students' English language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
2. Content-Based Instruction: ELL students receive support within their regular classroom settings, where teachers incorporate strategies to make content accessible and comprehensible.
3. Small Group Instruction: Students may participate in small group activities and tutorials to receive additional support and practice in English language skills.
4. Cultural and Social Support: We offer resources and activities to help ELL students adjust to their new school environment and build connections with peers.
Monitoring:
We regularly monitor the progress of ELL students to ensure they are making academic and linguistic gains. Progress is assessed through language proficiency assessments, classroom performance, and teacher observations. Adjustments to instructional strategies and support services are made as needed to meet students' evolving needs.
Communication:
Effective communication is vital to the success of our ELL Program. We maintain open and ongoing communication with students, families, teachers, and support staff to ensure that everyone is informed and involved in the educational journey of our ELL students. Regular meetings, progress reports, and interpreter services are available to facilitate communication and collaboration.
At PCPS, we are dedicated to providing an equitable and enriching educational experience for all students, including those in our ELL Program. We invite you to partner with us in supporting the academic and personal growth of every student in our diverse community.
PCPS receives Title III funding. Title III is responsible for the oversight of the language instruction of Limited-English proficient and immigrant students.
The English Learner Family Tool Kit provides support to families of English learners (ELs) in the U.S. education system. Each topic has five parts: Overview, Family and Student Rights, Questions to Ask School Staff, Tips, and Resources.
For more information about our EL Program, please contact Kimberly Montalvo.
For resource support for EL students and families, contact the division Social Worker, Ellen Crist at 757-868-3050.
