Mission Statement

Ensure that English language learners receive rigorous curriculum standards and achieve high levels of academic success.

Goals

The Mars Area School District provides a research-based ESL program for its students who are identified and assessed as English Language Learners (ELLs). This program will enable ELLs:

• to nurture self-pride and self-identity in each student’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
• to develop proficiency in the English language.
• to reach a level of proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening as outlined in the Pennsylvania State Standards.
• to reach a level of proficiency in all content areas.

Objectives

• Implement and maintain consistent procedures for the ESL identification process.
• Design an ESL program to allow every ELL to achieve academically while becoming proficient in English.
• Provide highly qualified staff.
• Provide appropriately aligned curriculum and frameworks.
• Assess all ELLs annually.
• Provide for parent/family involvement so that they may participate in the education of their ELL(s).
• Establish and administer consistently appropriate criteria for exiting the ESL program.
• Provide equitable access to district programs and services, including special education and gifted/talented education.
• Monitor the progress of all ELLs during and for two years after program participation.
• Evaluate the success of the ESL program and make necessary modifications.
• Maintain accurate student records.