English As A Second Language            Core Instructional Program

     IU 29 works in conjunction with 10 consortium districts to provide a planned educational program for students learning English as an additional language. This program enables students to meet academic standards and succeed in school. 

     An ESL (English as a Second Language) program includes social and academic language skills as well as cultural aspects of the English language.  ESL is available to students enrolled in grades K-12. 

How the process works: 

• When a student enrolls in school, a Home Language Survey is administered to determine the native language, other languages used and the languages spoken in the home.
• If responses indicate a language other than English, the student is assessed in the areas of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing using an English Language Proficiency test.
• ESL services are recommended for any student who does not measure fluent and/or competent in all 4 areas.
• IU itinerant staff or district staff provides ESL during the regular school day.