Per state requirements, students are identified as English Learners (ELs) through a process of assessment using the California English Language Development Test (CELDT), which is administered annually.  The goal of this process is to identify the specific needs of English Learners, to provide targeted instruction and intervention to increase their English language ability, and to eventually reclassify them as Fluent English Proficient (R-FEP).

 

Students identified as English Learners (ELs) are placed with teachers who have been certified to teach English learners. Based upon their fluency with the English language, English learners are enrolled in a daily English Language Development (ELD) Class (replacing an elective course) to supplement their regular language arts instruction. ELD instruction focuses on language skills development, reading and writing skills, vocabulary development, and language fluency. Two bilingual aides provide in-class support and instruction, collaborating with the EL students’ teachers to ensure individual learning needs are met; in some cases, support is provided in the student’s native language. English Language Development (ELD) instructional materials are used in the classroom and for individualized intervention. As students increase their fluency with the English language, Southridge Middle School continues to monitor their performance through the CELDT and adjusts instruction as needed to ensure continued success.

Additionally, Southridge Middle School's English Language Acquisition Program offers after-school language acquisition program for English Learners. Instruction focuses on increasing proficiency with the English language.

To assist with oversight and monitoring of our programs for English Learners, Southridge Middle School has established an English Learners Advisory Committee (ELAC), which is comprised of students, teachers, parents and other staff members. ELAC meetings are held 5-6 times each year to review, discuss, and provide information about programs and services for English Language Learner (ELL) students. Additionally, at each meeting we feature presentations by students who are enrolled in English Language Development (ELD) classes. We encourage any interested students and parents to participate. To view our schedule of meetings please click HERE.