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English Language Learner Progam

Learning English

Helping Students Learn English at Mashpee Public Schools
Our Language Support Program

Mashpee Public Schools is proud to welcome students from around the world. Many of our students speak a language other than English at home. We support these students through our Language Support Program to help them become confident English speakers, readers, and writers.

Here’s how we support students learning English:

  • In the classroom: Students learn with their classmates in regular classes. Their teachers use clear instructions, helpful visuals, and other tools to make lessons easier to understand. All of these teachers are trained to support students who are still learning English.

  • Small group instruction: Students also spend time with a teacher who specializes in teaching English. In these smaller groups, they get extra practice with listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English.

  • Real-life and academic language: We help students learn everyday language (like how to talk with friends) and school language (like how to understand a science book or write an essay).

We believe that all students can succeed when given the right support. No matter how long a student has been in the United States, we are here to help them learn, grow, and feel part of our school community.

English Language Parent Advisory Committee

ELPAC RESOURCES

The Mashpee Public Schools' ELPAC meets monthly on the third Thursday at 5:00 pm at the Quashnet School Library, 150 Old Barnstable Rd, Mashpee.

What are ELPACs?

English learner parent advisory councils are made up of parents and legal guardians of English learners.

How can I get involved?

Membership is voluntary and is open to all parents and legal guardians of students who are or have been identified as English learners.

Who is required to create and support ELPACs?

School districts or charter schools with 100 or more English learners or in which English learners comprise 5% of the student body, whichever is less, are required to establish ELPACs. Schools designated as underperforming or chronically underperforming must also establish ELPACs.

What are the duties of ELPACs?

ELPAC duties include but are not limited to:

  • Creating by-laws (rules) regarding officers and operational procedures;

  • Advising the school district, school committee, and board of trustees on matters related to English learners;

  • Meeting regularly with school or district leaders to participate in the planning and development of programs to improve educational opportunities for English learners;

  • Advising the district or school on any new proposed language acquisition programs;

  • Reviewing district and school improvement plans as they relate to English learners; and

  • Meeting at least annually with the school committee or school council.

The success of ELPACs depends on building supportive and trusting collaborative partnerships among and between parents, school staff and leaders, and community members. Please visit the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education for more information on ELPACs.

Courtney Schneeweiss

Titles: Director of English Language Education, Teacher
Locations: QIS
Email:

Resources