English as a Second Language (ESOL) teacher. 

5th and 6th Grades

Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Math 

I support students learning Academic English. This includes Listening Comprehension, Reading skills and comprehension, Speaking, and Writing skills. Students learning a language other than English need direct support in attaining these skills.  But once they do, they are often more fluent in both or all languages spoken.  This is because language learning transfers to other languages learned or learned together with English. My role is to focus on vocabulary, oral and written expression, basic reading skills for decoding as well as overall comprehension of text, and focused listening comprehension. Each year, our students take the WIDA ACCESS test in February to assess their progress in English Language learning.  When students attain their yearly language goal, it counts toward the Language Arts SOL score as a Pass. This is because the WIDA ACCESS test covers all areas of the academic curriculum.  Their success in this evaluation reveals their level of learning and functioning in the academic environment of the classroom in English. 

I love teaching 5th and 6th grades because they are at a pivotal point in their academic career.  It is preparing them for more independent learning in middle and high school. This is an important time for them to learn self-sufficiency and skills for learning independently. Self-confidence and good self-esteem are vital for their success. I am honored to take an active role in this development.