English Language Learners

Research shows that by the year 2010, over thirty percent of all school-age children will come from homes in which the primary language is not English. While the speakers of these languages may be all ages, come from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds, from different economic situations, and may have come to this country for a variety of reasons, they all have in common the desire to learn English. Many different terms have been used to describe children whose second language is English: Limited English Proficiency (LEP), English as a Second Language (ESL) or Second Language Learners (SLL).  Currently, educators refer to these children as English Language Learners (ELL).  This shift in language represents a more accurate reflection of the process of language acquisition.

Lorain City Schools is committed to providing our ELL students the optimum learning experiences in order to sharpen their English language acquisition.  Currently, the most intense ELL instruction is being provided at Toni Morrison Elementary School, Longfellow Middle School, GJWilson Middle School, and Lorain Southview High School.  Other building within the district also have ELL support provided by bilingual instructional assistants.  Each student is evaluated on the level of instruction needed and placement is then made accordingly.  Each of our ELL students is monitored closely in order to insure success as the students strive towards full English language proficiency.

Questions regarding the ELL program can be directed to Mrs. D. Morell, Associate Director for Language Options, at 233-2375.  Her office is located within the Division for Teaching and Learning at the Charleston Center.