English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction is provided to all English Language Learners (ELLs) who meet the criteria determined by New York State.

Our ESL classes build upon the wealth of language, conceptual, and cultural experiences and background ELLs bring to the classroom. Language support is provided to develop listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in English through explicit instruction in learning strategies and how to apply them.

ELLs spend time daily with an ESL teacher. Through pushing-in to the mainstream classroom and pulling-out students to the ESL classroom, instruction is accomplished through activities and projects that coordinate with each grade level’s curriculum.

ESL instruction is framed by five New York State learning standards in which students will demonstrate cross-cultural knowledge and understanding and use English for information and understanding; for literary response, enjoyment and expression; for critical analysis and evaluation; for classroom and social interaction.

Progress in acquiring English language skills is monitored through the New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT), administered annually in the Spring.