English as a Second Language
Welcome to Bethel Park School District!
The Bethel Park School District is pleased to have you and your family become a part of our family. Supporting English Language Learners (ELL's) and their needs is very important to the Bethel Park School District. This support is given through our English as a Second Language program (ESL). This program is supported by three teachers K-12. Currently, those staff members are located at Ben Franklin Elementary, Memorial Elementary, Neil Armstrong Middle School, Independence Middle School, and Bethel Park High School.
An English as a Second Language (ESL) program serves the vital purpose of equipping non-native speakers with the linguistic skills necessary to navigate and thrive in English-speaking environments. These programs are designed to enhance proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, thereby fostering effective communication and integration into academic, professional, and social contexts. By focusing on both language mechanics and cultural nuances, ESL programs empower individuals to access broader educational opportunities, improve employment prospects, and participate more fully in their communities. Ultimately, ESL education promotes inclusivity, cultural exchange, and personal growth, contributing to a more diverse and interconnected society.
The Evaluation Process for ESL Services
Families enrolling their children in Bethel Park School District complete a Home Language Survey as a part of their registration. This survey determines if the student:
- Has a first language other than English
- Speaks a language other than English
- Lives in an environment where a language other than English is spoken
A family interview is then conducted that gathers additional information to support the District in making the best possible decisions for their child. This is followed by a screening done by a qualified teacher to determine the English language needs of the student. This will include looking through academic history records. When a student has qualified for ESL services in a previous district, these steps may be condensed because the student's English language needs may have already been determined.
Once a determination has been made for a student's needs, contact will be made by the Student Support Services Department to discuss the recommendations.
Parent Rights
Parents hold significant rights in determining the educational pathways for their children, including the acceptance or refusal of services for English as a Second Language (ESL) programming. These rights are grounded in the belief that parents are the primary decision-makers for their children's education and well-being. Parents are provided with comprehensive information about the benefits and structure of ESL programs, ensuring they can make informed decisions. If a parent feels that an ESL program does not align with their child's needs or educational goals, they have the legal right to decline participation. However, Bethel Park School District is also tasked with ensuring that parents understand the potential advantages of ESL support, particularly in enhancing their child's language proficiency and academic success.
We are very proud of the ESL program that we are able to provide our students and do recommend that the family take advantage of the program being offered. However, as the parent/guardian, the final say is yours. In the event that a family decides that the ESL program is not for their child, an "opt out" form will be sent to the family for signature.
ACCESS Testing for English Language Learners
In Pennsylvania, English Language Learners (ELL) are required to take the ACCESS test, which stands for Assessing Comprehension and Communication in English State-to-State each year. The primary purpose of this standardized assessment is to measure the English language proficiency of students in grades K-12 across four domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This test helps educators and administrators determine the level of support ELL students need to succeed academically. The results guide instructional planning and programming, ensuring that ELL students receive appropriate language development services. Furthermore, the ACCESS test complies with federal and state regulations mandating that schools monitor the progress of ELL students, aiming to provide equitable educational opportunities and track their progress toward English language proficiency.
Score reports from this annual testing are shared with families, usually in the summer after the testing occurs. Families can find information about ACCESS testing by visiting the Pennsylvania Department of Education ACCESS Testing Information Page.
Also, below are parent reference informational flyers about the ACCESS testing and on interpreting score reports.