English Language Learners (ELL)

Description of ELL Programming for MSD of North Posey School Corporation

The Metropolitan School District (MSD) of North Posey School Corporation provides a comprehensive English Language Learner (ELL) program designed to support language minority students in achieving academic success and developing English language proficiency. The program incorporates both push-in and pull-out models of language acquisition services to address the unique needs of each student.

A language minority student is any student who comes from a home or environment where a language other than English is primarily spoken. These students may have varying levels of proficiency in English, ranging from no exposure to near fluency. The identification of language minority students is the first step in determining their eligibility for ELL services, which is typically done through a home language survey and English language proficiency assessment.

The MSD of North Posey School Corporation is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment that enables all students to thrive, regardless of their linguistic background.

What is WIDA?

WIDA (World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment) is a comprehensive system used by schools across the United States to support English Language Learners (ELLs). Its primary goal is to help students who are learning English develop the language skills they need for academic success and effective communication.

The WIDA system includes:

1. Standards
   WIDA provides English Language Development Standards that outline the language skills students need in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. These standards ensure that students can understand and use academic language in all subjects, such as math, science, social studies, and English.
2. Assessments
   WIDA assessments are used to measure how well students are learning English. These assessments help teachers understand a student’s strengths and areas where they need additional support. The primary assessments are:
   • WIDA Screener: Given when a student first enters school to determine if they qualify for ELL services.
   • ACCESS for ELLs: An annual test that measures students’ progress in learning English and determines their current level of English proficiency.
3. Proficiency Levels
   WIDA uses six proficiency levels to describe a student's English language development:
   • Level 1: Entering
   • Level 2: Emerging
   • Level 3: Developing
   • Level 4: Expanding
   • Level 5: Bridging
   • Level 6: Reaching (fully proficient)
4. These levels guide teachers in tailoring instruction to meet students' language needs.
5. Resources for Families
   WIDA also provides resources to help families support their children at home. These include materials in multiple languages that explain how students are assessed and how parents can be involved in their child’s education.

Why is WIDA Important?

WIDA ensures that students learning English receive the support they need to succeed in school. It helps schools monitor progress, set learning goals, and provide resources tailored to each student’s abilities.

If you have any questions about how WIDA is used at your child’s school or want to better understand their progress, feel free to contact Shannon MacMunn, Director of Student Services.




ELL RESOURCES
WIDA Family Engagem ent
WIDA Parent Letter English
WIDA Parent Letter Spanish
WIDA Parent Letter Gujarati
WIDA Parent Letter Chinese