English as a Second Language (ESL) Program

Goal of the ESL Program

The goal of the ESL program is to help students develop their English language proficiency using second language methodology through explicit instruction in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in all academic areas.

Terminology

Description of the English as a Second Language (ESL) Program

The English as a Second Language (ESL) program is an intensive instructional program designed to develop proficiency in the comprehension, listening, speaking, reading, and writing of the English language.  Student eligibility for the program is determined through the administration of an English language proficiency test, and parent permission is required for entrance into the program.  All instruction is provided in English and utilizes the TEKS and the ELPS for the cultivation of English language skills and the promotion of academic success in all grade level content areas.

Program Eligibility

School districts in Texas are required by state law to assess the English language proficiency of all students whose Home Language Survey indicates that the home or student language is a language other than English. 

If a child demonstrates limited English proficiency on the assessment, s/he will be eligible for enrollment in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program.  The goal of the ESL program is to enable English Learners to become competent in the understanding, reading, listening, speaking, and writing of the English language through the development of literacy and academic skills in grade level content areas.

Elementary School ESL

The ESL Program for Prekindergarten through Fifth Grade offers ESL Content-Based.  Students are placed with teachers who are ESL certified allowing students to receive the necessary in-class support to develop their English language skills. An ESL Interventionist is also available on each campus to provide pull-out support for students at lower English proficiency levels.

Middle School ESL

The Junior High campus in Liberty Hill ISD has an ESL Pull-out Program.  The English as a Second Language (ESL) program in grades 6-8, is an intensive program of instruction designed to develop proficiency in the listening, speaking, reading, and writing of the English language.  Students are enrolled with an ESL certified Language Arts teacher where they learn functional, social, and academic language to communicate in different settings.  All other content area teachers serving EB (emergent bilingual) students are either ESL certified or use sheltered instruction strategies to help students understand the content and develop academic language in the areas of Math, Science, and Social Studies.  All courses for EB students provide instruction based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and follow the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS).  [See 19 TAC Chapter 89.1210(f).]

High School ESL

The High School campus in Liberty Hill ISD has an English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program in addition to an ESL Pull-out Program. The English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) high school program, is an intensive program of instruction designed to develop proficiency in the listening, speaking, reading, and writing of the English language.  All other content area teachers serving EB students are ESL certified or use sheltered instruction strategies to help students understand the content and develop academic language in the areas of Math, Science, Social Studies, and English Language Arts.  All courses for EB students provide instruction based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and follow the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS).  [See 19 TAC Chapter 89.1210(f).]

CAMPUS CONTACTS

Rancho Sienna Elementary

Lindsay Henderson


Santa Rita Elementary

Kimbra Shephard


Bar W Elementary

Taylor Saunders


Tierra Rosa Elementary

Jennifer McMullen


Liberty Hill Middle School

Jordan Hunt


Santa Rita Middle School

Julie Pahl


Legacy Ranch High School

Terri Michener


Liberty Hill High School

Terri Michener