The ELL program at AIS-R focuses on providing English learners with practice and application of key content and language concepts, promotes students’ interactions with each other and with the teacher, and provides opportunities for students to use English while reading, writing, listening, and speaking in new contexts. The ELL classroom environment respects your child’s preference for learning individually, in small groups, and large groups while at the same time, pushing for immersion in all aspects of English language learning.

What is the English Language Learners program?

The English Language Learners (ELL) program in the middle school prepares and supports students in becoming proficient in English, so they can learn and interact in and outside the classroom and succeed socially and academically at AIS-R.  The ELL program encourages students' own individuality and appreciation of other cultures, while giving them the skills they need to fully benefit from the learning opportunities available in the larger school community.

What does ELL support look like?

In the middle school, ELL students receive support from the ELL specialist in two classes. On alternating days, the students have the support of the ELL specialist in the mainstream Humanities class in a team-teaching model, and on the following days, support is given in a separate ELL class where the focus is on language as well as support of all content areas.

How will I know how my child is progressing in their English acquisition?

Regular parent contact is important to us, and we make an effort to keep parents informed through email, notes home, and regular reports.  The quarterly MS report card has a section for the ELL specialist to report on the participation of your child in the classroom.  In addition, the ELL specialist will send home a twice yearly ELL Progress Report which focuses on language.  When you come for parent-teacher conferences, the ELL specialist, along with the content teachers, will be present to share information about your child's progress.

As a parent, what can I do to support my child's learning English?

At school, encourage your child to join a variety of after school programs to develop social and academic English and to stay for extra help when necessary.  At home, having your child read books in English each night is invaluable practice.  Students need a chance to practice what they're learning in school independently.  On a weekly basis, your child will be provided with additional leveled books to read at home.  We also encourage you to continue to develop your child's native language at home.  Research has found that students who are fluent in their native language have an easier time acquiring English.

How long will my child need ELL support?

Students vary in the length of time and amount of language support needed.  Many factors influence a student's ability to learn English including prior education, native language fluency and literacy, age, aptitude, motivation, and a supportive environment.  A student is considered for release from the ELL program when both the ELL teacher and home room teacher agree that the student is capable of functioning autonomously and successfully in the regular instructional classroom, as well as meeting the grade level requirements without support.