Brandywine School District
16 Great Schools. 1 Strong Community.
English Language Learners
Students come to Brandywine School District from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds. We recognize that our diversity adds to a rich educational landscape. We understand that some of our students come to us with limited English language skills; they may be recent immigrants to the US or from families that speak another language at home. Further, they might be able to speak English fluently with their friends but don’t know how to communicate in English well enough to talk about academic subjects. BSD serves approximately English Language Learners who speak 53 different languages.
An English Language Learner (ELL) is a child that
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Speaks a language other than English.
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Lives in a home where a language other than English is spoken.
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Was born outside the USA and speaks non-American English.
English Learners are identified using the WIDA online screener which assess English language proficiency. This entry test determines whether the child is eligible for services. It also determines the level of English Language Proficiency for each new EL student that registers in our district. Each school in the Brandywine School District is assigned an ESOL teacher or tutor to work with EL students.
Elementary English Learner Services
We are committed to providing the best possible support for your child's English language development. In elementary schools, we use a co-teaching model, where teachers of Englihs learners collaborate with classroom teachers to provide integrated instruction. This approach ensures that your child receives consistent language support while participating in regular classroom activities, helping them to develop their English skills in a natural and engaging way.
In addition to our co-teaching model, some of our schools offer dual language immersion program. In this program, students receive instruction in both English and Spanish, which supports bilingualism and biliteracy. Students in the immersion program benefit from learning in a culturally responsive environment that values their linguistic background while accelerating their English language development.
Newcomer Students
Brandywine welcomes newcomers from around the world. For our newcomer students, we provide targeted pull-out instruction focused on listening, speaking, reading, and writing. These targeted sessions are designed to accelerate language development, helping new English learners quickly gain the skills they need to succeed in their academic journey. Newcomers receive co-teaching and limited pull-out instruction throughout the school year.
Our comprehensive approach ensures that every student receives the support they need, tailored to their specific language development stage. We are dedicated to helping your child thrive in their new language and achieve academic success.
Secondary English Learner Services
In secondary schools, we are dedicated to helping our English Learners (ELs) succeed through a structured English Language Development (ELD) program. Direct language instruction is tailored to student’s English language proficiency level, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive. Students engage in one of two English language development classes.
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ELD Level 1: This introductory level focuses on basic English language instruction in listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students engage in small group rotations, which allows teachers to provide personalized reading instruction and meet each student where they are in their reading development. This targeted approach helps build a strong foundation in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
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ELD Level 2: This level is designed for students with intermediate to advanced language skills. Instruction focuses on further developing their language proficiency, preparing them for more complex academic tasks.
Co-Teaching Instruction: In addition to ELD classes, students receive co-teaching instruction during their English Language Arts (ELA) classes. EL teachers work alongside classroom teachers to provide integrated language support, ensuring that students can access the curriculum and participate fully in classroom activities.
Our comprehensive elementary and secondary ELD programs are designed to provide students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their academic journey and beyond. We are committed to supporting their growth and celebrating their progress every step of the way.
Language Learning Resources
Below are three valuable resource sessions designed to help you navigate and enhance your child's educational journey:
- English Learner Resources: Discover various resources and strategies to support your child's English learning at home and in the community. See resources here.
- Supporting Newcomer Students: Learn how to effectively support newcomer students as they adjust to a new language and school environment. See resources here.
- Learning the US School System: Gain a better understanding of the US school system, including key policies, expectations, and how to advocate for your child's education. See resources here.
Bilingual Services for Families
We are committed to ensuring that all families have access to important information and can fully participate in their child's education. Brandywine Schools offer interpreting services at no cost to parents. Our Language Line Services provide interpreting over the phone, while in person and Zoom interpreting services are available to all families and upon request.
These services are available for a variety of needs:
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Registration: Assistance with enrolling your child in school.
- Parent-Teacher Conferences: Ensuring clear communication during meetings about your child's progress.
- Parent Events: Facilitating understanding and participation in school events and activities.
- School Meetings: Support for IEP meetings, disciplinary meetings, and other school-related discussions.
- General Inquiries: Helping with any questions or concerns you might have about your child's education.
Please let us know if you require interpreting services, and we will gladly arrange them to ensure effective communication and support for your family.
Contact information
Dr. Sugely Solano, English Learner Coordinator
1311 Brandywine Blvd
Wilmington, DE 19809
302-793-5082 (o)
Aide Devine, District Bilingual Parent Liaison
302-792-3991 (o)
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