• High School ELL Program

    English as a Second Language (ESL)

    The high school ESL program offers English language learners a series of courses to assist them in attaining English language proficiency and in meeting state learning standards. 

    • ESL English classes teach students the listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills necessary to transition into regular high school English classes. Students receive English credit for ESL English classes, and these classes meet English requirements for graduation.
    • The high school ESL curriculum is tied to Illinois Learning Standards and Illinois English Language Proficiency Standards.
    • ELL Resource class provides academic support to English language learners to assist them in succeeding in their content classes. Students receive assistance with the development of cognitive academic language as well as with reading and writing skills. Students receive elective credit for this class.

    Bilingual Education (not offered at every school) 

    In addition to ESL instruction, in buildings where there is a TBE Program:

    • Students receive native literacy instruction and/or native language support.
    • Spanish for Spanish Speakers classes are designed to develop the native language literacy skills of English language learners whose first language is Spanish, through the World Language Department. The focus of this class is on reading, writing, and grammar skills. Students will also learn about the history and culture of countries where Spanish is spoken. Students receive elective credit for this class.
    • Sheltered ELL Content classes are specialized sections of regular high school core classes that cover the same district curriculum, but use instructional materials and techniques appropriate for English language learners. This makes grade level academic content more accessible for English language learners while they continue to develop English skills.