English as a Second Language
What is ESL and How Will My Child Receive Services?
ESL, English as a Second Language, is a program where your child will work on social language, listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in English.
Grades K-6
Students are pulled once a day, everyday for 45 minutes to receive small group English instruction. Students are not pulled from math or specials including art, music, computers or gym.
Grades 7-12
Students are scheduled on a daily basis for English Language classes in their regular school schedule.
How do you qualify for English as a Second Language (ESL) Services?
Step 1: When you registered your child in the Maple Shade District you completed a Home Language Survey. If the survey indicates a second language is primarily spoken by your child then we will proceed to step 2.
Step 2: Your child will be given the WIDA Model or the WIDA Model Screener test. Students that receive under a 4.5 proficiency level will be entered into the ESL program. A letter will be sent home notifying you of their entrance into the program including their score.
What is WIDA ACCESS for ELLs?
WIDA ACCESS for ELLs is a state mandated assessment used in most states throughout the US. It’s purpose is to assess a student's English Language proficiency skills and growth in social language, listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Exiting the ESL Program
Every Spring your child will be given the WIDA ACCESS. Once your child scores a 4.5 or higher they will be exited from the ESL program. A letter will be sent home notifying you if they will exit or continue in the program on a yearly basis including their WIDA English proficiency scores.
After a Student Exits the Program
Once a child exits the program they will be monitored for 2 years.