Southeast Polk’s English Language Learner program uses an approach called “sheltered instruction.” This means EL students learn the language both in their classrooms and individually with an English language instructor.
The district has English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) instructors in every building. Students stay in their own school for EL instruction. ESOL instructors and classroom teachers frequently communicate about students’ classroom learning and their English language development.
Southeast Polk has approximately 220 English language learners enrolled each year. In 2018-2019, students and their families spoke over 40 different languages, including Spanish, Arabic, Pohnpeian, Tagalog, Hmong, Swahili, and Lao.
All new students complete a Home Language Survey at registration with their parents or guardian. This is the first step in identifying students who may benefit from support in English learning.
When a language other than English is spoken at home, ESOL teachers assess students using a state approved screening tool.
When students are not proficient in listening, speaking, reading and writing English, the ESOL teacher sends a letter to the parents/guardian (in their home language) to inform them their child will be served in the ESOL program.
The district makes every attempt to inform language minority parents of all school matters through translated letters and notices and school provided interpreters.
Students exit the program when the state English language test ELPA21 indicates the required score for proficiency and the student scores proficient on district-wide and/or statewide assessments in reading and math. This must happen in the same year.
Southeast Polk Lau Plan
