• English as a New Language Facts and Questions:
     
    What is English as a New Language?
       English as a New Language was formerly known as English as a Second Language.  The purpose of the ENL program is to provide English instruction to students whose first language is not English. When students enter the ENL program, the ENL teacher helps to develop and support students by addressing their specific language needs.  For example, we work on developing vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing skills.  This can be done within the general classroom (as a push-in) or in a small group setting outside of the classroom.    
     
     
    How does my child qualify for services?  
    How many minutes of English language support does my child receive?
        
       When a student arrives from another country or sometimes another state, their parents complete a Home Language Questionnaire.  If a language other than English is indicated on the questionnaire, the ENL teacher will conduct an informal interview to determine if testing with the NYSITELL is necessary.  The NYSITELL stands for the New York State Identification Test for English language Learners. This exam will determine the student level (Entering, Emerging, Transitioning, Expanding, Commanding) and amount of time he/she will receive services.  Students at the Entering and Emerging levels will receive 360 minutes per week of ENL instruction.  Students at the Transitioning and Expanding levels receive 180 minutes a week of ENL.  Students at the Commanding level receive just 90 minutes a week of support.  
     
    What are the levels of English proficiency? 
     
    Entering:  Entering students are considered to be at the beginning level of new language acquisition.  They receive 360 minutes a week of ENL instruction.
     
    Emerging: Emerging students are in the beginning stages of new language acquisition.  They have a basic foundation, yet need extra support. These students also receive 360 minutes per week of ENL support.
     
    Transitioning:  Transitioning students are considered to be at the intermediate level of new language acquisition and receive 180 minutes a week of support.
     
    Expanding: Expanding students are at the advanced level of ENL.  These students receive 180 minutes a week of ENL support.
     
    Commanding: Commanding students are considered Proficient in English.  They receive 90 minutes a week of ENL support, however, they do not take the NYSESLAT exam in May.
     
     
     
     What is the NYSESLAT?
     
        The New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test is a test to determine language proficiency levels in students.
        This test is designed for newly  arrived ELLS to demonstrate English progress in the areas of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.  It        is given over the course of four days.  Students with special needs receive modifications for this exam; such as extended time and special          location. Each section of the test can last from 30 minutes to an hour or more.  
     
     Can a parent remove their child from ENL services?  
     
       English as a New Language services are mandated throughout the state of New York.  Parents are not allowed to remove their children from this program.