English Language Learners

Programs for English Language Learners

School District 158 offers a number of programs to support the growth of both English language skills and academic skills for students learning English. Programs are designed to meet the “No Child Left Behind” requirements as well as the state requirements for English Language Learners (ELL).

Traditional Bilingual Education (TBE) serves students when 20 or more of the same language group attend one attendance center. Children are instructed in their native language while they learn English.

Transitional Program of Instruction (TPI), commonly referred to as English as a Second Language (ESL), serves students when 19 or less of the same language group attend one attendance center. The class allows students to focus on developing English and educational concepts appropriate for their ability and language level throughout the day.

The goals of the programs for English Language Learners (ELL) are:

To provide the learning opportunities that will accelerate the acquisition of English and the academic development of all ELLs.
To make Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) at the district and school levels.

English Language Proficiency Standards establish a common yardstick across the state that defines and measures how English Language Learners systematically acquire language in the areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Each standard addresses a specific content area. The standards focus on the language needed and used by English language learners to succeed in school.