Programs

ESL Program

The goal of ESL programs shall be to enable English language learners to become competent in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the English language through the integrated use of second language methods. The ESL program shall emphasize the mastery of English language skills, as well as mathematics, science, and social studies, as integral parts of the academic goals for all students to enable English language learners to participate equitably in school.

SWISD offers ESL content-based and pull-out program models in grades PK-12.

The English as a second language program shall be an integral part of the regular educational program required under Chapter 74 of this title. School districts shall use state-adopted English as a second language instructional materials and supplementary materials as curriculum tools. In addition, school districts may use other curriculum adaptations that have been developed. The school district shall provide for ongoing coordination between the English as a second language program and the regular educational program.

The English as a second language program shall address the affective, linguistic, and cognitive needs of English language learners as follows.

(1) Affective. English language learners shall be provided instruction using second language methods in English to introduce basic concepts of the school environment, which instills confidence, self-assurance, and a positive identity with their cultural heritages. The program shall address the history and cultural heritage associated with both the students' home language and the United States.

(2) Linguistic. English language learners shall be provided intensive instruction to develop proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the English language. The instruction in academic content areas shall be structured to ensure that the students master the required essential knowledge and skills and higher-order thinking skills.

(3) Cognitive. English language learners shall be provided instruction in English in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies using second language methods. The instruction in academic content areas shall be structured to ensure that the students master the required essential knowledge and skills and higher-order thinking skills.

Bilingual Program

The goal of bilingual education programs shall be to enable English language learners to become competent in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the English language through the development of literacy and academic skills in the primary language and English. Such programs shall emphasize the mastery of English language skills, as well as mathematics, science, and social studies, as integral parts of the academic goals for all students to enable English language learners to participate equitably in school.

SWISD offers a Dual-language One-way 50/50 program model to students in grades PK-5th grade.

Dual language immersion/one-way is a biliteracy program model that serves only students identified as limited English proficient. This model provides instruction in both English and Spanish, or another language, and transfers a student to English-only instruction. Instruction is provided to English language learners in an instructional setting where language learning is integrated with content instruction. Academic subjects are taught to all students through both English and the other language. Program exit will occur no earlier than six years or later than seven years after the student enrolls in school. A student who has met exit criteria in accordance with §89.1225(h), (j), and (k) of this title may continue receiving services, but the school district will not receive the bilingual education allotment for that student.

The primary goals of a dual language immersion program model are:

(A) the development of fluency and literacy in English and another language for all students, with special attention given to English language learners participating in the program;

(B) the integration of English speakers and English language learners for academic instruction, in accordance with the program design and model selected by the school district board of trustees; and