English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), High Intensity Language Training (HILT)

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), High Intensity Language Training (HILT) and HILT Extension comprise a competency-based program to teach English and academic content to limited English proficient students at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. The program concentrates on the development of speaking, listening, reading, writing, and thinking skills. It integrates the teaching of language with content area instruction in mathematics, science and social studies and literature. There are entry and exit criteria for all levels.

 

{Bullet}   Annual Survey of Limited English Proficient Students (pdf)

{Bullet}   Program Brochure (pdf) 

ESOL instruction is for all kindergarten second language learners and for students in grades 1-5 who are identified to be at intermediate-advanced stages of second language development (appropriate to their grade level) in aural/oral, reading and writing. Students spend the majority of their day in mainstream classes. ESOL instruction is offered at 21 elementary schools.

 

 

The First Language Support program is offered at the primary grades in four elementary schools: Barcroft, Barrett, Carlin Springs, and Hoffman Boston. To accelerate content instruction in social studies and science, students receive First language Support in Spanish for a maximum of two hours each day. Instruction incorporates grade level curriculum. For the remainder of the day, students receive instruction in English. Students must have parents’ permission to participate in this program.

 

{Bullet}   Elementary Language Learner Checklist (pdf)

The middle school HILT Program is provided for those students identified as HILT A or HILT B in grades 6-8. These students receive their core instruction (reading/language arts, social studies, and science) from a HILT teacher. Students may be in HILT math or grade level mathematics as well as physical education and exploratory classes.

 

HILTEX is provided for students identified as HILTEX A or HILTEX B. These students receive their core instruction (reading/language arts and social studies) from a HILTEX teacher and are assigned to an appropriate grade level team for science, math, exploratory and physical education classes.

 

Students exit the HILT/HILTEX program based on criteria such as passing criterion-referenced tests, writing samples, Degrees of Reading Power tests, and class performance.

 

{Bullet}   Secondary Language Learner Checklist (pdf)

Students identified as beginning (HILT A) or intermediate (HILT B) English language learners study in the HILT Program. These students receive their core instruction (reading, language arts, social studies, and science) from a HILT teacher. Students may enroll in HILT math or mainstream mathematics, as well as physical education and elective classes.

 

HILTEX is for those students who have successfully completed the HILT Program or are identified as advanced English language learners. They generally receive their reading/language arts, and social studies classes from a HILTEX teacher and then study in grade appropriate classes for science, physical education and electives.

 

Students exit the HILT/HILTEX program based on criteria such as passing criterion-referenced tests, writing samples, Degrees of Reading Power tests, and class performance.

 

{Bullet}   Secondary Language Learner Checklist (pdf)

The ESOL/HILT program provides support services for staff development and training to staff members; resource assistance to staff, families, and students; family education workshops and classes; and development of curriculum and support materials for the elementary and secondary levels. The ESOL/HILT budget also provides special programs including bilingual counseling for high-risk students, the alternative HILT program for 18-22 year old students, a day and evening high school continuation program, and the HILT Institute for Career Development. Community involvement and student activities such as student leadership seminars, conferences and tutoring are also supported by the ESOL/HILT Program.