The ENL department helps English Language Learners (ELLs) achieve proficiency in English and reach their full potential as participants in the Rye Neck learning community.The goal is for each student to attain fluency and accuracy in the language. An overall goal is for the department to be a reliable and positive support for students, parents, and the school community at large.

Identification: A student is identified as "a potential ELL" when his or her family registers in the district and fills out the Home Language Questionnaire.
       After a review of records and an interview with the student, the ENL teacher determines whether or not to administer the NYSITELL (New York State Identification Test for English Language Learners). If tested, the resulting score determines if the student is eligible for ENL services, and, if so, the amount and type of service indicated. The NYSITELL score places the student at one of the following levels: Entering, Emerging, Transitioning, Expanding, or Commanding. If the student scores as Commanding, the student is not considered an ELL and will not receive ENL services.

Service: ENL service, as envisioned and mandated by New York State Education law (CR part 154), may be stand-alone, and/or integrated depending on the student's English proficiency level.  
       Stand-alone instruction occurs in the separate ENL classroom. It is provided to beginner level ( Entering and Emerging), and may be provided to low intermediate level (Transitioning) learners, as well. 
       Integrated service occurs within the student's classroom.  In this form of service, the ENL teacher works with the classroom, or subject area teacher, to "bridge the gap", and ensure that the curriculum is accessible to the ELL student. English Language Learners at every level benefit from Integrated ENL service. 

ENL teachers assist students by:

• Celebrating and validating the student's cultural identity and growing bilingualism
• Providing foundational grammar lessons and practice for beginner level students
• Providing targeted grammar practice for more advanced students
• Collaborating with classroom and subject area teachers on lessons and materials
• Providing modified materials, as needed
• Creating modified tests, when indicated
• Providing a separate location for tests so students do not rush, or feel the time pressure of their native English speaking peers, if needed.
• Providing visual vocabulary supports
• Utilizing the home language -  For example, lower level students may do research in their home language, or read a class text or novel in their home language. The teacher may translate keywords, if necessary, or provide a subject-specific, bilingual glossary
• Utilizing their own ENL Google Classroom to share materials and exercises
• Advocating for English Language Learners within the school environment, and district
• Securing translated state exams, or translators for state exams so that the ELLs can demonstrate what they actually know and understand
• Working to develop new opportunities for English Language Learners, including enrichment, homework help, and NYSESLAT preparation programs

Supporting Parents:

     The ENL teachers recognize the critical role of parents in their children's education and social development. The ENL teachers work to establish and maintain close partnerships with parents and guardians. ENL teachers help parents navigate the new school environment by sharing information, resources, and advice. This support may be in the home language, if need be. Translation for parent meetings will be secured, upon request, to ensure that communication is always open and productive.