ESL
ESL is an intensive English language instruction program provided by ESL certified teachers who are trained in effective second language acquisition methods. The goal of the ESL programs for English learners is to attain full proficiency in English in order to participate equitably in school.
What is the purpose of an ESL program?
To make grade level academic content accessible to English learners
Target English language development, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills
State Approved ESL Program Models
English learners will attain full proficiency in English in order to participate equitably in school.
1. Content-Based ESL – English learners receive all content area instruction by ESL certified teachers
2. Pull-Out ESL – implemented within the English learner’s classroom, or the English learner may be provided his/her English language arts and reading instruction by an ESL certified teacher in another classroom setting
Benefits of an ESL program
Academic instruction is provided by teachers who
are trained in effective second language acquisition methods;
understand the specific language needs of English learners and how to address them;
recognize the benefits of an English learner’s academic, cultural, and linguistic background; and
can adapt instruction, pacing, and materials to target an English learner’s language proficiency level.
What instruction will my child receive in an ESL Program?
Your child will develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in English through the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS) in conjunction with their grade level academic instruction in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) of all content areas including English language arts and reading, mathematics, science, and social studies.
How can parents support their child who participates in an ESL program?
Parents can support their child’s acquisition of English through opportunities to practice English as well as opportunities to increase their child’s skills in their primary language. Research shows the benefits of primary language development on second language development and the positive transfer of skills from one language to another.
Some examples of parent activities to support English acquisition include:
reading to your child in English and/or your primary language
engaging in conversations that promote a wide-range of vocabulary in either language, and
oral storytelling in your primary language and/or English
Ways to support the ESL program include:
participating as a member of the Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC)
volunteering to engage in classroom activities, and
serving on school and district site-based decision-making or other advisory committees
Can a child who is also receiving other services participate in an ESL program?
Yes, students who receive services in other programs, such as special education, 504, response to intervention, and gifted/talented or advanced academics, may also participate in the ESL program. The LPAC, in conjunction with other student services committees, meets to discuss and coordinate services based on the educational need of your child.
Resources for Parents
ESL Brochure- English
ESL_Brochure.pdfESL Brochure- Spanish
ESL_Brochure_Spanish.pdfESL Brochure- Vietnamese
ESL_Brochure_Vietnamese.pdfReclassification Criteria Chart.pdfReclassification Flowchart- English
EL Identification Reclassification Flowchart.pdfDiagrama para la identificación
EL Identification Reclassification Flowchart-Spanish.pdfReading Tip Sheets
Contact Information
Anahuac Elementary School
Elbia Delacruz
delacruze@aisdpanthers.com
Anahuac Middle School
Stacey Vernon
vernons@aisdpanthers.com
Anahuac High School
Tammy Duhon
duhont@aisdpanthers.com
District
Cindy Bertrand
bertrandc@aisdpanthers.com