English Learners
Beachwood Schools is proud to celebrate the cultural and linguistic diversity of our students and their families. Our community includes families who speak nearly 30 different languages and originate from a wide range of countries around the globe.
Program Overview & Goals
Our English Language Learning program facilitates students’ reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in a welcoming environment, enabling them to achieve academic success and meet grade-level expectations as they acquire English. Our goals include:
- Promoting understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures while helping students navigate the cultural differences within the school environment and broader community.
- Facilitating the integration of English learners into the general classroom, encouraging interaction with English-speaking peers and participation in school activities.
- Engaging families in the educational process, providing resources and support to enhance their involvement and understand the school system.
- Ensuring teachers and staff receive ongoing training in teaching strategies and cultural competence to effectively support English learners in the classroom.
Assessment:
Each year, we evaluate the English proficiency levels of students who have a primary or home language other than English using the Ohio English Language Proficiency Assessment (OELPA). This test is based on Ohio’s English Language Proficiency Standards and measures students' ability to read, write, listen and speak in English.
In September, our district informs the families of English learners about their current English proficiency level and the assessment methods used. We also describe the instructional approaches employed in our program and how we will support students. Families also will receive an estimated timeline for their child to achieve English proficiency.
Methods of Instruction:
Our program adheres to Ohio's English Language Proficiency standards. Students who are English learners receive direct instruction in the use of English language in pull-out classes and differentiation within the classroom. We use an immersion approach designed to make academic concepts comprehensible. Teaching materials and assessments are adapted to each student's language level.
By integrating language and content-area instruction, students use English in authentic, meaningful ways as they discuss, read, write, and think about subject-area content. This authentic use of language in real-life contexts helps improve their communicative competence.
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Affinity Groups
We invite the families of our English learners to join our affinity groups, a welcoming space where you can connect, share experiences, and support each other.