ESOL / Overview

ESOL

Welcome to the English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program

The ESOL program communicates the needs of English Language Learners to all stakeholders involved in their education and monitors adherence to state and federal guidelines. In addition, we diligently implement a Common Core Georgia Performance Standards and WIDA standards based curriculum designed for attainment of English language proficiency while integrating content. The program also provides access to resources and facilitates communication to allow parents and families of English Language Learners to play an active role in their child’s education.

Upcoming Events

ESOL Community Outreach

Quarterly community meetings will be held for parents of English Language Learners throughout the district. During these sessions, parents and families will learn about translation and interpreting services and be encouraged to take an active role in the learning process. All schools will receive information on the time and location of these meetings. Interpreters will be available.

ESOL Community Meetings

Professional Learning

ESOL Endorsement Course

The 2012-2013 ESOL Endorsement Course will be offered for certified APS teachers. Weekly classes will be held September through May. For more information, contact Stephen Fowler at (404) 802-7580.

District-Wide ESOL Training

During the months of October and March (annually) all schools will be required to participate in a series of professional learning sessions concerning the education of English Language Learners. Topics covered will include monitoring students who have exited the program, incorporating WIDA standards, interpreting ACCESS scores and how they relate to AYP, and understanding policies and regulations related to ELLs. Please contact the ESOL representative at your school for additional information.

Professional Learning Communities

All ESOL Teachers will participate in quarterly PLC meetings by region. The goal of these sessions is to provide an opportunity for vertical planning, analyze student performance data and share best practices.