Multilingual Learner Education
Mission Statement
Our mission is to empower English Learners with the language skills and cultural competence necessary to excel academically and participate fully in a diverse society.
Vision:
Our EL program envisions a future where every English Learner reaches their highest potential, bridging language barriers, fostering inclusivity, and preparing students to thrive in an interconnected world. We aim to create an educational environment that celebrates diversity and values multilingualism, ensuring that all students receive equitable opportunities and support to succeed.
Welcome to our English Learner Education Program at West Springfield Public Schools. We are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Our program is designed to empower English learners with the language skills they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
Key features of our English as a Second Language (ESL) program include:
- Experienced and dedicated ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers
- Small class sizes to ensure personalized attention
- Culturally responsive curriculum that celebrates diversity
- Individualized learning plans to address each student's unique needs
- Interactive and engaging language instruction through technology and hands-on activities
- Ongoing assessment and progress monitoring to track student growth
- Collaborative support for students, teachers, and parents to foster success
At West Springfield Public Schools, we believe that language is a bridge to knowledge, and we are here to help our English learners build that bridge with confidence and competence. Together, we create an environment where every student can thrive academically and socially, while embracing their multicultural backgrounds.
Eligibility and exit criteria
Eligibility for English as a Second Language (ESL) or English Language Learner (ELL) programs is determined by a language proficiency assessment. A language proficiency screening is scheduled for all newly enrolled students whose Home Language Survey (HLS) indicates that there is a language other than English spoken at home. The language screening measures a student's level of proficiency listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English. If identified as an English Language Learner (ELL), students will receive ESL services and continue to do so until the exit criteria is met.
ELLs typically need to meet the following criteria to exit English language learner status in Massachusetts’ schools:
1. English Proficiency: ELLs need to demonstrate English language proficiency as assessed by the ACCESS for ELLs test. They are expected to reach or exceed the specific proficiency level established by the state.
2. Academic Achievement: In addition to language proficiency, ELLs need to show they are performing at or above grade level in their academic coursework, especially in their core subjects.
3. Teacher Recommendation: Classroom and ESL teachers will provide recommendations as to whether a student should exit ELL status based on their observation of the student's language skills and academic progress.
Our district is committed to preparing students for success in an increasingly interconnected and multilingual world. We believe that every student’s language diversity is a valuable asset, and through our program, we aim to empower them to reach their full potential.
For any programmatic questions, please call: 413-495-1855 or 413-495-1750. We can connect with an interpreter for all language needs.
Director
Sharlene DeSteph
Office Phone: 413- 495-1750
Email: desteph@wsps.org