Skip To Main Content

English Language Learners


 

ALL MEANS EACH, language, culture & equity

Our district’s English Language Development (ELD) program is overseen by Special Services Coordinator Jennifer Bruns – jbruns@esdk12.org. We use Summit K12 with all Multilingual Learners (MLs) to support language growth and academic achievement. At the high school level, students may participate in a dedicated ELD course. While the other schools do not have an ELD-specific teacher, they provide robust literacy supports through classroom instruction and targeted interventions.

MLs are served through a variety of programming options based on individual needs, guided by the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. Practices include collaboration, coaching, co-teaching, targeted small groups, and, when needed, intensive supports through direct English language and content instruction. Service intensity is determined using a collaborative problem-solving approach embedded in MTSS.

Tier I – Universal Classroom Instruction
Classroom teachers and content specialists integrate language development into instruction, using Summit K12 and other strategies to support both language acquisition and content mastery throughout the school day.

Tier II – Targeted Instruction
Support staff provide small-group instruction to address specific language development needs. At the secondary level, this may include a designated ELD course.

Tier III – Intensive Instruction
Students such as newcomers may receive individualized support from ELD staff or trained interventionists to accelerate both English language proficiency and content learning.

All MLs have an English Language Learner Plan (ELLP) that addresses their specific linguistic needs. The district’s curriculum and Colorado Academic Standards are integrated with the Colorado English Language Proficiency (CELP) Standards and implemented through differentiated instructional practices. The goal is grade-level performance and proficiency in English through additive services and instruction. Instructional decisions are based on student performance in both English proficiency and academics, not on a fixed timeframe in the program.

ELD Liaisons for our schools: