Program Description

Our Programs

Sheltered Instruction Program

Students in this program receive at least one period of ESL instruction every day. In addition, all content area teachers who work with MLs have been trained with 15 hours of Sheltered Instruction strategies.

High Intensity English as a Second Language Program

Students in this program receive two class periods of ESL instruction every day. Additionally, content area teachers receive district-provided ongoing ML professional development.

Full-Time Bilingual Education Program

Our Full-Time Bilingual Program has been designed for students whose home language is Spanish and who are developing proficiency in English. Students in this program receive instruction in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in both English and Spanish. Students in this program also receive at least one period of ESL instruction every day.  

Newcomer Program

This program has been established to address the varying needs of Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE). All content area instruction provided in this program is differentiated to meet the unique academic needs of each student and supported by a bilingual certified teacher. Students in the Newcomer Program also receive at least one period of ESL every day.

Program Features

• Curriculum that recognizes the unique academic, social, cultural, and language development needs of MLs
• Standards-based differentiated instruction
• Social and emotional support services for students
• Ongoing professional development and Sheltered Instruction training for teachers
• Ongoing professional development for administrators
• ESL and bilingual certified staff
• Parent involvement and participation through Parent Advisory Committee meetings

Program Placement and Exit

• The WIDA MODEL test is used to measure students’ level of English language proficiency upon District entry
• The WIDA ACCESS test is given annually to inform instruction and measure how much students have progressed in English
• A composite ACCESS score of 4.5 or higher may allow a student to exit the ESL program
• Having ML status gives students access to ML accommodations on the State test (NJSLA)