English Language Learner (ELL)
Mid-Prairie’s English Language Learner (ELL) program serves speakers of other languages in grades K-12. The goal of the ELL program is to support linguistically diverse students in gaining English proficiency, in learning academic content, and in preparing for a diverse world.
Research-Based Beliefs:
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Students can learn language and content simultaneously.
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Individuals acquire language at different rates and in different ways.
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A solid literacy foundation in the home language is highly beneficial to learning additional languages.
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Students with diverse backgrounds are an asset and bring a variety of unique strengths to the classroom.
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High levels of parent involvement are related to high academic achievement for students.
Programming:
During enrollment, parent(s) and/or guardian(s) complete a Home Language Survey. Students who speak any language besides English in the home are screened for English language proficiency. Identified students receive ELL services from specialized teachers. Annually in the spring, all identified students take the English Language Proficiency Assessment for the 21st Century (ELPA21). Based on these results, students may exit from the program and be monitored for two years or continue receiving services the following year.
Mid-Prairie’s ELL program is flexible and uses a variety of teaching methods and models to meet each student’s needs
- Students are encouraged to share their culture with peers.
- Mid-Prairie supports all students in reaching their goals.
- Students learn vocabulary and language that will support them in and out of the classroom.
- Students learn grammar within real, familiar contexts.
- International Day of Multilingualism at Kalona Public Library