Sheltered English Immersion Program (Grades 2-12):
Provides intensive English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction and sheltered content instruction. In this program students will:
- Develop skills for speaking and understanding English
- Learn to read and write in English
- Learn grade-level content
Mainstream Education (K-12):
P rovides sheltered content instruction and ESL support. ELL students will be integrated with non-ELL students. In these classroom students:
- Receive the Massachusetts standards based curriculum
- Receive sheltered content instruction
- Continue to develop English skills in the areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing
Newcomer Class:
The Newcomer Class is a one year program for students with limited formal schooling and is located at one middle school and one high school. It is designed for students who meet the following criteria:
- Between the ages of 11-13 (Middle School) or
- Between the ages of 14-17 (High School)
- Have significant interrupted or unusual previous schooling experiences
- Are designated as “Beginner” in English
Placement Criteria:
State and federal laws require an assessment of language proficiency of all students whose home language includes one other than English. Testing and parental interview is conducted by the ESL Assessment Specialist. Results determine placement options. Parents have the final program choice within the guidelines of 71A.
Exit Criteria:
Testing will be administered annually to measure English Language proficiency with state mandated assessments. Students will exit the program based on state and local testing results, academic performance and teacher recommendation.
Formerly Limited English Proficient (FLEP):
Academic performance of a FLEP student is monitored for two years following exit from the ELL program to ensure continued success.
