What is English as a New Language - ENL?

In the Riverhead School District, we are dedicated to supporting English as a New Language (ENL) learners, helping them acquire the language skills necessary to succeed academically and socially. Instruction in this program, formerly known as English as a Second Language (ESL), emphasizes English language acquisition.

ENL program: The language arts and content-area instruction are taught in English using specific ENL instructional strategies. Students receive core content area and English language development instruction, including the use of the home/primary language as support and appropriate ELL instructional supports to enrich comprehension. To meet the diverse needs of our students, we implement two key instructional models: ENL Stand-Alone and ENL Integrated Instruction.

Implementation Across Grade Levels

In the Riverhead School District, both ENL Stand-Alone and Integrated models are utilized across elementary and secondary grades, ensuring that students at all levels receive appropriate language support. At the elementary level, the emphasis is on foundational language skills, while in secondary grades, the focus expands to include more complex academic language, preparing students for higher-level coursework and eventual graduation.

By offering both stand-alone and push-in instruction, we are able to meet students where they are in their language development journey, providing them with the tools they need to succeed in all areas of their education. Our commitment to ENL education is a vital part of our broader mission to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.

ENL Stand Alone

The ENL Stand-Alone model provides targeted instruction to students in a separate classroom setting. In this model, ENL students receive intensive English language instruction that focuses on the key areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The stand-alone sessions are typically led by a certified ENL teacher who tailors lessons to the students' language proficiency levels, ensuring that each child receives the support they need to progress.

For elementary students, stand-alone instruction might occur during specific periods of the day when they are pulled out of their regular classrooms. In secondary grades, this model might be part of a designated ENL class where students focus exclusively on developing their English language skills.

Integrated ENL

The Integrated ENL model integrates English language instruction within the general education classroom. In this model, an ENL teacher collaborates with the classroom teacher to support students directly in their regular learning environment. The push-in approach allows ENL students to engage with the standard curriculum alongside their peers while receiving the additional language support they need.

This model is particularly effective because it enables ENL students to remain fully immersed in the classroom community, participating in discussions, group work, and activities. The ENL teacher may work with students individually or in small groups, focusing on language development within the context of the day’s lesson.

Bridges Program

The Bridges Program is a specialized initiative within the Riverhead School District designed to support English as a New Language (ENL) students who have experienced interruptions in their formal education. These students, known as Students with Interrupted Formal Education (SIFE), often face unique challenges that require targeted interventions to help them catch up academically and adjust socially. The ultimate goal of the Bridges Program is to help SIFE students bridge the gap between where they are and where they need to be academically and socially. By addressing both their educational and emotional needs, the program empowers students to overcome the obstacles they face and thrive within the school community.