English as an additional language (EAL)

EAL prepares and supports students in becoming proficient in academic English in the four domains of language proficiency: speaking, listening, reading and writing, to learn, interact and succeed inside and outside the classroom, both socially and academically. The program encourages individuality and appreciation of other cultures and languages, while giving students the skills they need to benefit fully from the learning opportunities available in the larger school community.

 The EAL program provides listening, speaking, reading and writing instruction according to each student's proficiency levels. In the Lower School, students are supported in a variety of ways, such as using inclusion model support as well as specialized lessons, in-class scaffolding of grade-level curriculum, and progress monitoring. In K1-Grade 4, EAL support is primarily in the classroom to take advantage of the language-rich environment and the oral language development that is taking place for all students. In the Middle and High schools, EAL students take an EAL class four times in an 8-day cycle. Depending on scheduling and needs, additional support may be available in a student's classroom at the middle school level.

ASL uses the WIDA Model assessment of English language proficiency for Grades 4-5. WIDA supports academic language development and academic achievement for linguistically diverse students through high-quality standards, assessments, research and professional development for educators. WIDA promotes the belief that English language learners enrich our school communities with their many contributions and strengths.