Program Description

MVSD implements an ELA Program model providing comprehensible instruction.  As pursuant to the Colorado Department of Education’s Guidebook on Designing, Delivering, and Evaluating Services for English Learners (ELs), the following is implemented:

1.     Direct English language and literacy instruction by certified ESL staff;

2.     School-wide plan optimizing instruction for ELs that is embedded into staff development;

3.     Identification of key concepts and vocabulary;

4.     Widespread use of hands-on activities, visual aids, and repetition;

5.     Minimal use of lecture and general classroom teacher use of sheltered English;

6.     Scaffolding lessons to achieve communicative competence;

7.     School or community resources that allow students to work with speakers of the native language;

8.     Suggestions to parents for use of primary language at home to aid in accessing underlying conceptual content knowledge.