Elementary ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Program Mission Statement
The Katy ISD Elementary ESOL program seeks to provide a quality content-based ESL program that differentiates instruction according to each student’s level of language proficiency in order to scaffold instruction across all content areas while supporting the affective, linguistic and cognitive needs of each elementary ESOL student.
Elementary ESOL Program Goals
Goal 1: Affective - English Language Learners are provided instruction using second language acquisition methods in English to introduce basic concepts of the school environment which instills confidence, self-assurance, and a positive identity with their cultural heritage. The program addresses the history and cultural heritage associated with both the students’ home language and the United States.
Goal 2: Linguistic – English Language Learners are provided intensive instruction to develop proficiency in the comprehension, speaking, reading and composition of the English language. Instruction in academic content areas is structured to ensure that the students master the required essential knowledge and skills and higher order thinking skills.
Goal 3: Cognitive – English Language Learners are provided instruction in English across the content areas utilizing second language acquisition methods to ensure mastery of the grade level essential knowledge and skills and higher order thinking skills.
Program Model
ESOL is a content-based model of instruction. ESOL students are eligible to receive ESOL accommodations to provide the support needed to comprehend the grade level content material while acquiring the English language. ESOL students may receive ESOL instruction from:
- Their grade level ESOL certified classroom teacher (advanced/advanced high proficiency level students)
- An ESOL ISST (Instructional Support Specialty Teacher) who may provide instruction in the grade level classroom (intermediate proficiency level students)
- And/or through “pull-out” for 1st year recent immigrants who are non-English speaking (beginning proficiency level students)
The ESOL ISST and the grade level classroom teacher(s) will collaborate to provide the best learning environment for your child. The needs may change throughout the year as your child develops his/her English language proficiency.