English for Speakers of Other Languages

The goal of the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program is to help the students with limited or no English proficiency learn enough English to function linguistically and culturally in the St. Mary's County Public School System and in American society. The education of the EL is a responsibility shared by the ESOL teacher, the classroom teacher, the student, and the parent/guardian.

The policy of the ESOL program is to present an integrated approach of the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. While the emphasis of a lesson may focus on one particular skill, other skills will also be incorporated.

*A student in grades K-12
*A student in a home where a language other than English is spoken or heard

Contact the school secretary or guidance counselor who will then refer the student to the ESOL teacher.

The ESOL teachers look at:

• Home Language Survey
• Student/parent/guardian interview ·
• School records/transcripts/standardized test scores
• English proficiency test results
• Teachers' recommendations

Once the student's level of English proficiency has been determined and parent permission has been granted, direct instruction at each public school location will take place weekly in individual and/or group settings.

Yes! The program emphasizes learning English for effective participation in other classes.

A student receives services until English proficiency is achieved.

Volunteer at school
Encourage the child at home by providing a place to study and showing an interest in school assignments
Promote reading in the home