Welcome to Shenendehowa ESL!

ESL Education

English as a Second Language (ESL) is a specialized instructional approach designed for students whose first language is not English. Trained and certified ESL teachers use methods, techniques and materials designed to meet the needs of Limited English Proficient (LEP) students.

ESL at Shenendehowa

The ESL program at Shenendehowa has evolved in order to better meet the needs of our English Language Learner (ELL) population. A pull-out program is in place at the elementary level, while students at the middle schools and high school attend ESL classes which are grouped by proficiency level.

The ESL curriculum is closely aligned with both the New York State English Language Arts Standards and Shenendehowa’s Essential Content and Competencies.

Screening and Scheduling

Screening and scheduling ESL students is a lengthy process that occurs over the first few weeks of each school year. ELLs are represented in all twelve buildings, and numerous factors must be taken into consideration while organizing the schedule.

With the help of their guidance counselors, students at the secondary level are placed in classes that provide English instruction and content support.

At the elementary level students are taken out of mainstream classes in order to receive ESL services. Students may not be pulled from Art, Music, or Physical Education.

Unlike Special Education students, English Language Learners do not receive Individualized Education Programs*(IEPs). The level and frequency of their classes is determined by grade level and proficiency in English according to New York State guidelines.

Proficiency is initially assessed with the Language Assessment Battery Revised (LAB-R) which is administered when a student enters school. Based on the results of this test, ELLs are placed in Beginning, Intermediate or Advanced level classes. The New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT) is given on a yearly basis to determine proficiency and continued eligibility for ESL services.

* Note: It is possible for an ELL to receive an IEP based on factors other than language ability. In this case, ESL services are coordinated with any other special services the student receives.