English Language Learners are placed into the appropriate language supported classes based upon their score on the WIDA assessment and staff recommendation. The WIDA Assessment is given each spring. If the current year’s WIDA test results are not available, the most recent WIDA (or English Language Proficiency Assessment) score will be used for placement.
New scholars entering school between testing dates are given a shortened assessment (WIDA Screener) within 10 days of enrollment, which helps the District identify scholars for the appropriate support. Eligible ELL scholars are scheduled into appropriate core courses with language support provided. ESL or SIOP (Sheltered Instruction Observational Protocol) strategies are used at Union High School, the District’s high school cultural center, to increase scholar’s English language proficiency and academic achievement.
Union High School is the District’s only high school cultural center. 9th -12th grade scholars from any high school attendance area in need of language services (based upon WIDA level) may attend Union High School.
ELL scholars who enter high school after 9th grade are placed into the grade appropriate core classes, as well as the appropriate English as a Second Language course, based upon their WIDA level. Scholars, 15 years old or older, who have an WIDA level of “Entry” and are new to the United States with minimal or no education background, may qualify to attend the Newcomer’s Program which is housed at Union High School. The Newcomer’s Program is designed to help scholars new to the United States meet high school graduation requirements while acclimating to the American culture.