• NEWCOMER PROGRAM

      Language acquisition experts agree that the best methods for second language learning are those that supply ‘comprehensible input’ in low anxiety situations. By providing each student with intensive accessible instruction for extended periods of time in a classroom with their newcomer peers, we have the opportunity to accelerate language acquisition as well as acculturation.

       

      Our Newcomer Program offers instruction where the entire academic day will be crafted just for them.  This targeted instruction will accelerate their English language acquisition and provide them with a foundation for success in the traditional classroom. By serving the newcomer students in a centralized location, we meet their needs in an environment that is focused explicitly on them.  After students successfully complete up to 3 semesters in the Newcomer Center, they will be ready for traditional English language instruction in mainstream classes.

       

      By serving the newcomer students in a centralized location, we meet their needs in an environment that is focused explicitly on them. When students are ready to transition into R.B. Stall High School, they are ready for traditional English language instruction.

      Mission:

      To successfully mainstream newly-arrived English Language Learners after 3 semesters by:

       

      ■ Creating a safe and nurturing environment where the instruction is

      focused explicitly on them

      ■ Immersing students in meaningful language experiences that utilize

      listening, speaking, reading, and writing

      ■ Provide multiple opportunities for students to use English successfully,

      allowing students to gain confidence as they transition from basic

      communication skills to academic language skills

       

      Vision:

      Our newcomer students will:

       

      ■ Recognize the value of their cultural and linguistic diversity, while

      appreciating the diversity of others

      ■ Develop their critical thinking skills, creativity, and self-worth

      ■ Be prepared to serve and participate in their communities as a literate 21st

      Century Citizens

        • STEPS FOR NEWCOMER PLACEMENT 

           

           

          Our newcomer program is currently offered to:

                  

          ■ Students in grades 9-12 at R.B Stall High School for the 2022-2023 school year




          Criteria for Newcomer Program qualification:

          ■ A WIDA Screener score of less than 2.0

          ■ Students who are brand new to the USA

          ■ Students who have been in the USA  less than 2 years and whose first language is not English


          Students who qualify for the Newcomer Program will receive the following support:

          ■ Orientation to school and society

          ■ Social-Emotional learning

          ■ Specialized curriculum

          ■ Access to a wide range of support services for students and families

          ■ Individualized academic attention

          ■ Multicultural education

          Exit Criteria and Duration of  Newcomer Program:  

          ■ Students can attend the program for up to 3 semesters

          ■ Students exit the program when they score 2.9 or above on the WIDA Access test

          ■ Students exit the program when they have earned 6 or more high school credits

    • If the student’s English composite proficiency level (CPL) on the WIDA Screener is 2.0 or below, the student will be recommended for the Newcomer program, and depending on Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE) evaluation, math assessment, and parent/guardian interview, the student will be offered one of two “pathways” within the newcomer program.

       

      Note:
      Prior to being placed in a newcomer's classroom, our Parent Advocate meets with the family and the Guidance Counselor to discuss placement and also evaluate international transcripts. This means that the schedules of the newcomers are tailored to the student's credit needs, like any other student attending R.B Stall. Parents can refuse placement into the program. If a family chooses to place their children in a newcomer's classroom, a permission letter is sare tailoigned.

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