NEISD - Curriculum and Instruction

ESL Program

WHAT WE DO

The English as a Second Language Program (ESL) is a K-12 program that ensures students who are identified as English language learners (EL) receive the assistance needed to reach high levels of English proficiency. ESL is a program that integrates instruction with subject matters that not only targets the second language, but uses that language as a means to learn science, social studies, mathematics, and other academic subjects. ESL applies strategies and methodology designed to teach English reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills to EL students. ESL instruction is in English. In addition, ESL develops content, cognitive, and study skills as they develop their English language skills.

Our Mission:

To provide high quality English language instruction that will equip students with linguistic, academic and cultural understanding necessary to meet their educational goals.

Our Goals:

To provide comprehensive English as a second language (ESL) instruction.
To provide students with the cultural knowledge and awareness needed to function satisfactorily, both academically and socially, in the United States.
To prepare students for academic purposes with the academic skills and strategies to help them be successful.

We now serve 60+ languages in our district.

NEWCOMER PROGRAM

Newcomer Program provides a safe and scaffolded learning environment where diversity is valued in transitioning students to meet high expectations for language acquisition, academic achievement, and responsible citizenship.

The NEISD Newcomer program is for recent arrival of refugees or asylees. This program provides the support of a safe learning environment in order for the students to begin acclimating to U. S. schools. The newcomer program assists students by providing the linguistic, cognitive, and academic needs while holding high standards. The students will participate in the program for no more than 2 years as it depends on an individual student basis.

Program Breakdown

The NEISD Newcomer Program provides a safe and scaffolded learning environment where diversity is valued in transitioning students to meet high expectations for language acquisition, academic achievement, and responsible citizenship.

Grades Pre-K - 5th

Your child will be assigned to a certified English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher to help build your child’s proficiency in English. Reading, Writing, Science and Math are taught with ESL strategies. A bilingual dictionary in your child’s first language and English will be available for all core subjects as necessary. Additionally for students in Grades 3, 4 and 5 who may be taking the state assessment, the ESL teacher will align classroom instruction and assessment accommodations to designated supports permitted.

student icon

Grades 6th - 8th

Your son or daughter will be assigned to newcomer Reading, English (Writing) class, and a sheltered Math, Science and Social Studies class. The reading and English classes all have certified English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers. However, all subjects will have teachers who include accommodations and strategies to help build your child’s proficiency in English. Accommodations in classroom instruction and assessment accommodations to designated supports permitted on state assessments.