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English Learners

English Learners (ELs), also referred to as Limited English Proficient or LEP students, are students whose native language is not English and who are not yet able to complete ordinary classroom work in English. Once students are identified as English Learners, they will receive targeted and individualized instruction that is designed specifically for learning English. In addition, EL students will be provided access to subject matter content and curricula in accordance with both federal and state laws and regulations. The Hoosac Valley Regional School District provides academic and language development support to EL students in grades kindergarten through grade 12.

The English Language Education (ELE) Program ensures that students who are learning English have equitable access to educational opportunities by providing services that assist these students with the attainment of English language proficiency, develop high levels of academic attainment in English, and meet the same challenging State academic content and student achievement standards all students are expected to meet. Services within the ELE Program include working with a licensed English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher. EL students will work with the ESL teacher both individually and in small-groups to practice the skills necessary to attain both social and academic English. EL students are also placed with certified teachers who have attained a Shelter English Immersion (SEI) endorsement. These teachers teach in the “core” subject areas and have received special training to work with students who are learning English. The ELE Program supports the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s mission to provide standards-based education through supplementary instructional and acculturation activities.

As an English learner, your child will participate each year in the WIDA ACCESS for ELLs 2.0 test to assess his or her progress in learning English. Students are tested in the areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Parents are informed of the results when they become available. Students will also participate in statewide assessments required for all students, including the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS), which assesses your child’s progress in academic subjects. Parents will receive reports of their child’s test results in their primary home language.