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About English Learners' Services in Chelsea
Mission Statement
The English Learners' Program of the Chelsea Public Schools
is committed to providing all children a high quality education
that
encourages them to realize their full academic potential. The Program
complies with all requirements of the state and federal laws
governing limited English proficient children.
The goal of the EL Program is to provide students opportunities
to acquire as expeditiously and efficiently as possible English
language proficiency so that they might participate successfully
in any regular school setting.
Services Offered
Sheltered English Immersion Program (all schools):
This program is designed to successfully prepare students to transition
to regular program classes after one year. All instruction
in these classes is in English, as are all texts and instructional
materials.
English as a Second Language Services (all schools):
Limited English proficient students who have been mainstreamed
or placed in regular education classes may receive ESL until they
demonstrate English proficiency.
Caminos Two-Way Program:
This Spanish two-way program is available at the Early
Learning Center (Shurtleff School) and at the Kelly School. Its
goal is the
development of true bilingualism.
New Beginnings Program:
The focus of this program is the development and improvement
of basic skills in English and mathematics. The program is available
at the Sokolowski School, Williams School and Chelsea High School.
Newcomers' Orientation:
High school students who are new to the United States spend
portions of their first week at Chelsea High School in a Newcomers'
Orientation. During this time, students receive a school orientation
and are evaluated for appropriate placement in classes.
How will children enter the programs offered?
New Elementary Students:
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 71A as to whether
their children attend English immersion classes or classes in the
regular program.
New High School Students: Students are tested during the Newcomers'
Orientation and recommendations are made for appropriate classes.
Parents make the final program choice within the guidelines of Massachusetts
Law 71A as to whether their children attend English immersion classes
or classes in the regular program.
How will children exit the programs?
After one year in an immersion classroom, students are
transferred to regular education classes. ESL services are provided
as needed.
Parents may request that their child not be placed in or be 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 71A as to whether their children attend English immersion classes
or classes in the regular program. |
