English as a Second Language (ESL) Information

The ESL Program provides services to English Language Learners attending St. John the Baptist Parish Public Schools in grades K-12 and their families. The primary focus of ESL instruction is the development of English language proficiency.  Appropriate instructional accommodations are implemented by the classroom teachers and ESL instructors.

 

English Learners are initially identified and then exited from the ESL program . All schools are required to have a plan to educate and support English Learners (EL). This plan includes a description of the type of English Language Development program(s) that are being offered.  According to the federal guidelines as defined by U.S. Dept. of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in Castañeda v. Pickard the EL program must include these elements: 

 

The mission of the EL Program in St. John the Baptist Parish Public Schools is to support English Language Learners in developing proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing so they can fully participate in school and community life. We are committed to empowering students to become responsible, productive citizens and enthusiastic lifelong learners who contribute positively to their diverse communities.