FAQ

1. What is the English as a New Language Program?

The English as a New Language (ENL) Program provides English language and academic support to those students who have been identified as English Language Learners (ELLs). ENL teachers work closely with their students' classroom teachers to plan instruction that helps meet the language acquisition needs and grade appropriate academic expectations of their students.

2. How is a student determined to be an English Language Learner (ELL) and participate in the English as a New Language (ENL) Program?

A Home Language Questionnaire is completed by parents as part of our registration process. After administering this questionnaire and carefully reviewing it, parents may be interviewed further to gain more information as to their child's English language proficiency level. Students may then be interviewed and administered the New York State Identification Test for English Language Learners (NYSITELL). Students are entitled to participate in the ENL program based upon the results of the NYSITELL.

3. What are the different levels of English language proficiency?

The different levels of English language proficiency are:

1. Entering (Beginner)

2. Emerging (Low Intermediate)

3. Transitioning (Intermediate)

4. Expanding (Advanced)

5. Commanding (Proficient)

4. When are ENL services given to students?

ENL services are given during the course of the regularly scheduled school day. The amount of instructional time each student receives depends upon their English language proficiency level. Instruction may occur in a stand alone/small group setting or in a co-teaching model with the student's classroom teacher.

5. How are students assessed on their English language skills each year?

Each school year, during the spring, the New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT) is administered to students in the ENL Program to assess their English language proficiency and determine placement in the program for the next school year.