English as a Second Language (ESL) is a component of the sheltered English instruction (SEI) program specifically designed for students with limited English proficiency (English Language Learners or ELs). ELs receive one to three blocks of English language instruction from an ESL teacher daily. The amount of daily ESL instruction varies according to the level of English language proficiency and is determined by the ACCESS score.

ESL teachers do not need to know other languages or the native languages of their students to teach ESL. ESL courses are part of programs and curricula offered to students who do not understand, speak, or write English well enough to take regular English language arts classes with their native English-speaking peers.

The district ESL curriculum is designed to promote the acquisition of all four-language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing as well as challenge students to think critically as they acquire and process the English language. This curriculum develops the academic language to prepare ESL students for mainstream general education classes and college.

Beginner ESL

This course introduces basic English literacy skills and helps students adjust to their new cultural environment. The objective of this course is to develop the students’ ability to use oral and written English for daily needs, acquire basic conversation skills and vocabulary, and use basic grammar and simple sentence patterns.

Foundational ESL

Foundational ESL is designed for students who have already obtained basic English language skills. This course prepares students to use English with increasing accuracy in most classroom and social situations. It also teaches the use of reading strategies to acquire key English vocabulary, decode and comprehend text, and find specific information needed in response to teacher prompt or personal need.

Transitional ESL

As the name suggests, this course is designed to be a bridge into grade-level English Language Arts (ELA) instruction. The most common delivery mode is an ESL teacher working alongside an ELA teacher to provide the necessary scaffolding for the ELs. Students are encouraged to develop independence in reading literary works and academic texts in writing essays and narratives, and in applying learning strategies and research skills effectively. Students also learn complex grammatical structures and idioms

Westfield Public Schools

English Learners

The Office of English Language Learners is located at 94 North Elm Street Suite 101, Westfield, MA 01085 (413) 642-9320

English Learners Staff

Mission Statement

What is ESL?

What is Sheltered Instruction

English Learner Program

ELPAC Schedule