Multilingual Learner Programs
Valerie Lakestream, Director of ELL & Bilingual Programs
Multilingual Learner Programs include Dual Language, Bilingual Education, World Language and English as a New Language (ENL) Programs. Bilingualism is a lifelong pursuit, and that journey begins here in our schools. Port Chester stands out as the largest multilingual community in the region and as a leader in the world of Bilingual Education. We support our mission of Success for All Students by sparking a passion for learning another language and providing access to Multilingual Learner Programs to students UPK-12. Students have the opportunity to engage in grade-level content in another language, graduate with the Seal of Biliteracy, and become true global citizens who are bilingual, biliterate and bicultural.
Bilingual Education
One-Way Dual Language
JFK Elementary School offers a one-way dual language program grades K-5. As per NSYED, “In the one-way Dual Language program model, students who come from the same primary or home language and or background have the opportunity to be bilingual or multilingual. The teacher or teachers provide instruction in both English and the primary or home language simultaneously.” At JFK, Spanish-speaking students work to become bilingual in English and Spanish.
Two-Way Dual Language
Park Avenue, Edison and King Street School offer two-way dual language programs grades K-5. As per NYSED, ”The two-way Dual Language program includes both native English speakers and ELLs.” The teacher or teachers provide instruction in both English and Spanish. Students receive half of their instruction in English and half of their instruction in Spanish. The goal of these programs is for students to develop literacy and proficiency in English and in Spanish.
Transitional Bilingual Education (TBE)
Students in grades 6-12 who speak Spanish as a home language have the opportunity to learn to speak, understand, read, and write in English while continuing to learn academic content in their home language. Spanish is used to help students progress academically in all content areas while they acquire English. The goal of this program is to provide students with the opportunity to transition to a monolingual English classroom setting without additional support once they reach proficiency.
English as a New Language (ENL)
Instruction in this program, formerly known as English as a Second Language (ESL), emphasizes English language acquisition. In an ENL program, language arts and content-area instruction are taught in English using specific ENL instructional strategies. Integrated ENL classes are taught by a teacher dually certified in the content area and ENL or are co-taught by a certified content area teacher and a certified ENL teacher. In a Stand-alone ENL class, students receive English language development instruction taught by a NYS-certified teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) in order to acquire the English language needed for success in core content areas. This program typically serves ELL students from many different home/primary language backgrounds whose only common language is English and therefore cannot participate in a bilingual program.
World Language
At Port Chester Middle School, Spanish Enrichment and Home Language Arts is offered to 6th grade students coming from the Dual Language Programs in the elementary schools. We also currently offer World Language classes in Spanish and Italian beginning in 7th grade.
At Port Chester High School, World Language classes are offered in Spanish, Italian and French. Offerings range from entry-level to IB and AP classes. Please see the PCHS Program of Studies for more information.
Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB)
Port Chester is proud to offer the New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB). High School Seniors pursue this prestigious endeavor by earning points in both English and any other World Language during their time at Port Chester High School. This includes languages taught at Port Chester High School and languages spoken at home.