English Learners' Program

Director: Mary-Grace Fusco
100 Everett Avenue, Unit 5A Chelsea, MA 02150
Phone: 617-889-7520
Email:

Lead teacher: Michelle Ervin
Chelsea High School
Phone: 617-466-5048
Email:

Lead teacher: Mary Anne Wilson
Joseph A. Browne Middle School
Phone: 617- 466-5236
Email:

Mission Statement #1: Given the appropriate level of ELL support, all English language learners will develop the social skills and fundamental academic English language proficiency to meet their grade level benchmarks. All students will work toward attaining a proficient level or above on state achievement standards and academic assessments for their grade. In classroom climates that respect diversity, the program participants will be prepared for general education classes, college and career by having

• 21st Century Skills
• High Aspirations
• Excellence in Teaching and Learning

Services Offered

New Beginnings:
The focus of this program is the development and improvement of basic skills in English and mathematics.

The program is available at the Joseph A. Browne Middle School and Chelsea High School.

Sheltered English Immersion Program ( Grades 1-8, Levels 1, 2; Grade 9-12 Levels 1, 2, 3 ):
In grades 1-8,this program is designed to successfully prepare students to transition to regular program classes after two years. In grades 9-12, this program is designed to successfully prepare students to transition to regular program classes after 3 years. All instruction in these classes is in English, as are all texts and instructional materials.

English as a Second Language Services ( K-12)
Limited English proficient students who are in regular education classes receive ESL services until they demonstrate English language [proficiency and are able to complete grade level curriculum without language support.

Caminos Two-Way Program:
This Spanish two-way program is available at the Early Learning Center ( Shurtleff School) and the George F. Kelly School. Placement Assessments indicate eligibility for entrance into this program. Students must meet all protocol and testing benchmarks to remain in the program.

Placement Criteria
Students whose dominant language is one other than English are tested at the Parent Information Center.

Results of language testing determine placement options. Parents make the final program choice within the guidelines of Massachusetts Law 71 as to whether their children attend immersion classes or classes in the regular program.

Exit Criteria
Generally, after two years in the Sheltered English Immersion Program, students are placed in regular education classes. ESL services are provided as needed.

Parents may request that their child not be placed in or removed from English Learners' classes at any time. At such time, conferences are held between the parent/s and school personnel. Based upon test results and classroom performance, recommendations are made for placement. Parents have the final program choice within the guidelines of 71 A as to whether their children attend English immersion classes or classes in the regular program.

---