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English Language Development for K-12 English Learners (ELs)
Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) offers content based English language instructional programs and services to meet the varied needs of English learners. English learners acquire academic English through participation in age appropriate, content-based instruction that is aligned to WIDA English Language Development Standards as well as the Minnesota K-12 Academic Content Standards. The Office of Multilingual Learning strives to provide English learners with the supports they need to acquire English language proficiency in grade-level academic content.
Services that Support EL Students in Saint Paul Public Schools- Access to grade-level standards and curriculum
- Support in the language development process, including students in special education
- Bilingual Educational Assistant (EAs)
- Full inclusion at elementary
- Co-Teaching instructional model at all levels
- Opportunities to earn a bilingual SEALS
For more information click on links below:
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Elementary English Learner Programs
EL teachers provide supplemental English language development through direct instruction for students at English proficiency levels 1-5. At the elementary level, most ELs receive the greater part of their instruction in the general education classroom. Classroom and EL teachers collaborate to teach language, create accommodations, and differentiate based on the needs of the students in their classrooms. EL service is provided through a co-teaching model and/or small-group instruction designed for EL students. These services are often provided in Reader’s, Writer’s, and/or Math Workshop.
Language Academy Program
Language Academy (LA) is a program unique to Saint Paul Public Schools that provides up to two years of intensive language support. It is designed for new immigrant students, some of whom may have limited or interrupted formal education. To qualify for Language Academy initially, students must have:
- less than two years of formal education in the United States
- English proficiency levels 1.0 and 2.9, as determined by the WIDA Screener
Language Academy students in elementary schools are placed in mainstream classrooms where they engage in grade-appropriate curriculum and receive intensive language instruction. These services will be provided collaboratively by mainstream teachers and EL teachers, through differentiated instruction and authentic assessment, to best meet the students' needs. It is designed to provide newcomer EL students in grades 1–5 with an education that builds content knowledge in order to foster academic success and language skills at their grade level. The Language Academy program provides students with an opportunity to participate in the school and the larger community.
Elementary Schools with Language Academy
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Secondary English Learner Programs
At the middle and high school sites, level 1 and 2 students receive sheltered classes in English language arts, science, math, and social studies.
Students at level 3 or higher may be served through a co-teaching model in the content areas. Collaboration allows for planning, teaching and assessment of content and language objectives for ELs in the mainstream classroom. These EL students may have one or more English language development (ELD) classes associated with the co-taught content class. The ELD classes are aligned to both the state standards and the WIDA English Language Development Standards.
Secondary Schools with Language Academy