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The program will have at least one full time (100%) English as an Additional Language (EAL) teacher for each grade level 1-5. As we are a full-immersion program, the push-in model will be used to enhance the best learning environment for the students. Planning periods consist of classroom planning, co-teaching planning, the scaffolding of assignments & assessments, and discussions for student learning.
The EAL teacher co-plans with the classroom teacher and will go into the homeroom classrooms to support English language learners during content-area lessons. The EAL teacher may be supporting students one-on-one, small groups or co-teaching the lesson or activity. The EAL teacher will support students in targeted language strategies when learning content information. Previous to the lesson, the EAL teacher will plan with the classroom teacher to scaffold the activities to help differentiate the different learning levels within the classroom.
The EAL teacher may pull students to work in a small group setting to focus on targeted learning strategies and tools. During instruction, students are often in the same-level proficiency groups. This allows the EAL teacher to meet the needs of the individual student at their ability level. EAL teachers are a support to English language learners in scaffolding activities to help students achieve the content target goals for the homeroom class.
This EAL Program supports English language learners’ language development in the core classroom. Research shows that this model is the most effective for successful language acquisition. Because language learning occurs through active engagement in school activities and social interactions, student needs are best met in the language-rich homeroom classes.
EAL teachers collaborate closely with classroom teachers to address student needs, curriculum, and instructional strategies.
EAL students receive direct and indirect language and content support. Examples of direct support include:
• In-class support
• Co-teaching model between EAL and classroom teachers
• Small groups instruction
• One-on-one individual instruction
Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten classrooms are a full immersion program. The classroom teacher and assistant teacher meet students’ language learning needs, and no time is scheduled with the EAL teacher. The EAL teachers will monitor kindergarten students’ language proficiency in the second semester in preparation for Grade 1.