Philosophy/Vision
The Issaquah School District uses an acceleration model that provides ELL students with powerful learning experiences that stress complex, engaging activities and direct teaching of the English language. Language and skill development is accelerated, so students can catch up with their peers.
The Washington State English Language Development Standards (ELDs) provide learning targets for teachers as they help the ELL students learn English.
Nearly 700 students receive ELL services in the Issaquah School District. These students represent 51 different cultures and language groups. The most common are Spanish, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese (2010 data).
General information/FAQ's
How will my student qualify for ELL services?
Students must meet eligibility requirements to qualify for ELL services. Eligibility is determined by the WLPT (Washington Language Proficiency Test) . There are four levels of English language development determined by the WLPT. You will receive a letter reporting the results of this test. If your student is Level 1, 2 or 3, they qualify for ELL services.
- Level 1 - Beginning/Advanced Beginning. Your student will receive ELL services.
- Level 2 - Intermediate. Your student will receive ELL services.
- Level 3 - Advanced. Your student will receive ELL services.
- Level 4 - Transitional. Your student will not receive ELL services.
How often will my student be re-tested on the WLPT?
All ELL students will be re-tested on the WLPT each February or March. Scores are sent home to you from the district office in June. Each year you will be able to compare the growth of your child's English skills.
If they qualify for ELL services, what kind of help will they receive?
Your child will not be removed from his or her classroom or change schools. They will receive services in his/her school.
Elementary ELL model: The elementary level uses the "Teacher Led" model. In this model students spend their day in a regular classroom. Teachers are trained in Project GLAD (Guided Language Acquisition Design), which gives them extra skills in working with ELL students. ELL Educational Assistants or ELL Teachers will also support the learning in the classroom by reviewing, extending or expanding the content. The ELL Assistant or ELL Teacher also works with the students, their families and the teachers.
Middle School ELL model: In some middle schools, the ELL students are in a Support Class such as Guided Studies, and the Educational Assistant works with students in their regular content classes. Other middle schools use a content-specific approach, where the ELL Teacher teaches the students for one period each day. Class time is devoted to working on English Acquisition through the district-adopted curriculum, Milestones (Heinle). Time is also set aside for homework help. Most middle schools also provide some kind of after-school support as well.
High School ELL model: The High School programs use a certified ELL teacher to teach one or more periods a day. Part of class time is used on English Acquisition with the district adopted curriculum, Visions (Heinle). The rest of the class time is used for supporting them in their content classes. Much of what the High School teacher may do each day is advocate for students with teachers and assist counselors with class placement and helping students meet graduation requirements. Some High School programs also have an Educational Assistant to do homework help with High School ELL students, either during or after the school day.
How can I talk to the classroom teacher or principal using an interpreter?
Your child's teacher may request an interpreter to talk with you, either over the phone or during face-to-face conferences. You can also request an interpreter as well. Please let your child's teacher know if you would like to use an interpreter, and she or he will make arrangements.
Resources
ELL contacts
- Liliya Stefoglo, ELL Curriculum and Instruction Specialist, 425.837.7093, stefoglol@issaquah.wednet.edu
- Rosann Rankin, Project GLAD Coach, 425.837.7006, rankinr@issaquah.wednet.edu
- Jerry Miller, Director of Instructional Support, 425.837.7043,
millerj@issaquah.wednet.edu