Program
Description:
Program
Goals
The Jackson Creek Middle School ENL program’s
main goal is to provide English as a New Language
instruction to students that have been identified
at a beginning or intermediate English language proficiency
level (1-3). Secondary goals are (1) record keeping
of each ELL student, (2) dissemination of ENL related
material to staff members, and (3) collaboration with
in-service professional development.
Instruction
ENL sheltered instruction is available daily during
two periods. One period is designated for beginners
and the other period is for intermediate level students.
Each period lasts 45 minutes. An ENL certified teacher
delivers the lessons utilizing well-designed, research
based learning activities. Modifications are in place
to accommodate different English proficiency levels
and learning styles. The “All – ELL”
classroom environment provides a non-threatening place
for them to learn their new language. Lessons are
often designed as thematic units aligned with the
ELP standards. The targeted skills are reading, writing,
listening and speaking. The lessons’ objectives
include: content, language and social/affective development.
Collaboration
with Non-ENL teachers
Collaboration with the core subject teachers is achieved
throughout the school year by sharing outlines of
quizzes and project guidelines. Content textbooks
have been permanently placed in the ENL classroom
for the reference and use of the ELL students and
teacher.
A school administrator, a counselor, at least three
core subject teachers, and the ENL teacher comprise
the ELLPAC – English Language Learners Placement
and Assessment Committee at JCMS. The ELLPAC holds
meetings at least twice a year and maintains communication
among the members via e-mail. When necessary a “sub-committee”
meets to confirm that the school is addressing the
needs of the ELL students and that the goals of the
ELLPAC have been met for the school year.
Parental
Involvement
Parent-teacher conferences are held each grading period
with students that have been identified by the ENL
teacher as falling behind in their academic performance.
The ENL teacher with the agreement of the content
area teacher sets up an appointment for the conference.
During the daily advisory time the ENL teacher follows
up with the study plan developed at the conference.
Parent-teacher conferences have proven to be a successful
tool to increase student academic achievement as well
as parental involvement.
School
Leadership
JCMS acknowledges the diversity of their students
and perceives the ELL students as an asset to the
school. JCMS leadership is extremely supportive and
stimulates the academic achievement of the ELL students
as well as all their other students.
