Overview

MISSION STATEMENT FOR MULTI-LINGUAL LEARNERS:

The ability to communicate in English is a critical need for students for whom English is not their native language and do not possess native-like fluency in all language domains. The Mahwah Township School District is dedicated to providing students with language skills and cultural understanding as prescribed by national and state standards for English language acquisition. The district offers a K-12 program supporting language learners at all proficiency levels. Students are assessed annually by use of the ACCESS tool – currently used by all member states of the WIDA consortium. As students advance through each level of proficiency, they not only acquire literacy in reading, writing, and speaking the target language, but also obtain an appreciation and understanding of American culture.

* English Language Learners (ELL) is now the term used in place of ESL (English as a Second Language).

Structure of the Curriculum

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (K-3)

Curriculum is based on thematic language units incorporating the four language domains of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students meet in a pull out class comprising no more than four students based upon grade and English proficiency level for a 40 minute period.

JOYCE KILMER SCHOOL (4-5)

Curriculum is based on various activities that incorporate listening, speaking, reading and writing language domains. Students meet in a small group setting in a pull out classroom based upon grade and English proficiency level for a 40 minute period.

RAMAPO RIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL (6-7-8)

A daily scheduled academic class for the students is conducted in a small group environment that allows students to use and practice the English language in the four domains of listening, speaking, reading and writing in English through various activities.

MAHWAH HIGH SCHOOL (9-12)

A regular scheduled academic class for the student, it is taught in a small group environment every other day for 55 minutes that allows students to use and practice the English language in the four domains of listening, speaking, reading and writing in English through various activities. Time is also given for help in the students' other classes, if needed, to help them achieve.