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English as a Second Language (ESL) » ESL Program Services

ESL Program Services

ESL Program Services

Davidson County Schools offers content-based ESL instruction. English learners develop English language skills through grade‑level core subjects. ESL teachers and tutors collaborate with classroom teachers and administrators to deliver instruction that meets the needs of multilingual learners. ESL and content teachers use a range of research‑based strategies to help students build English proficiency while accessing grade‑level content.

 

OUR GOAL:

Multilingual Learners in Davidson County Schools will: 

  • Attain English language proficiency.
  • Achieve academic success by meeting grade-level promotion standards and graduation requirements.
  • Become Career and College Ready!

 

Program Placement

During initial enrollment, the parent or guardian completes the Home Language Survey.  Students with a dominant language other than English are given the WIDA Screener within the first 30 days of enrollment. The WIDA Screener is a short English language proficiency assessment used to determine a student’s current level of English in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The results of this test determine a student's eligibility to receive English Learner program services. WIDA Screener results also guide educators as they provide appropriate language supports in the regular classroom.

English Learner Education Plans

English Learner Education Plans are individualized instructional plans that are written annually for all ESL students. Plans include WIDA test results, classroom modifications, assessment accommodations, and information regarding specific ESL instructional services. This plan is shared with administrators, teachers, support staff, and parents.

ESL services may consist of the following (based on students’ needs):

  • English language instruction may be provided by ESL support staff within the regular classroom or during ESL pull-out sessions.
  • ESL teachers and content teachers collaborate to address ways to support English learners.
  • ESL teachers continuously monitor academic progress.
  • The ESL department provides language resources and professional development to content teachers.
  • ESL teachers administer the annual WIDA ACCESS test and use the results to create individualized EL Plans each year to support ELs.
 

WIDA ACCESS Testing

North Carolina requires all English learners to take the ACCESS English Language Proficiency test each spring. The ACCESS test assesses English learners’ speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in English. Assessment results are shared with teachers and parents at the end of the school year.

How do students exit the ESL program?

ESL students must attain an overall/composite score of 4.5 or higher on the ACCESS test. Students taking the Alternate ACCESS test must achieve an overall score of 2 or higher to exit.

Support for Exiting Students

Students who exit the ESL program are monitored for 4 academic years. Temporary ESL support may be provided as needed.