English Language Development

English Language Development (ELD) Program

The ELD (English Language Development) team is dedicated to supporting students whose native language is not English. Our mission is to provide these students with the essential tools and classroom structures to acquire and improve their English language skills. The Hickman Mills School District has adopted comprehensive guidelines for English Language Learners (ELL) to enhance both learning and teaching processes, ensuring maximum benefit for all involved.

ELD Mission Statement
To serve as a bridge to English language mastery.

• Prepare students to succeed in mainstream classrooms.
• Provide basic skills and instruction for students with little prior schooling.
• Assist students in adjusting to a new school, community, or country.
• Minimize language and cultural barriers to encourage active parent participation in their children's education.
• Increase English proficiency and academic achievement in core subjects.
• Ensure students attain English proficiency and meet challenging state academic standards.
• Provide links to community organizations for additional family support.

Key Services:

• Mainstream Classroom Integration: Equipping students to function successfully in mainstream classrooms.
• Basic Skills Instruction: Offering foundational instruction for students with limited previous schooling.
• Adjustment Assistance: Helping students adapt to new environments.
• Parental Involvement: Encouraging and enabling parents to participate in their children's education.
• Academic Support: Enhancing English proficiency and academic achievement.
• Community Linkages: Connecting families with community resources.

Common Terms:

• ESL: English as a Second Language
• ESOL: English for Speakers of Other Languages
• LEP: Limited English Proficiency
• ELL: English Language Learners
• LM: Language Minority - students proficient in English but whose native language is not English.

Programs and Events:

• ESOL World Cultures Parent Night
• ESOL Family Resources Night
• ESOL Enrollment
• ESOL Adult Classes
• ESOL Parent-Teacher Conferences
• Translation/Interpreter Services: Available in Spanish, Arabic, and Ukrainian

Additional ELD Events:

• ELD Student Orientation: An introductory event to welcome new students and their families, providing essential information and resources.
• Cultural Celebration Day: A day to celebrate and share the diverse cultures represented in the school community through food, music, and activities.
• Parent Workshops: Educational sessions for parents on topics such as navigating the school system, supporting children’s learning at home, and understanding academic expectations.
• ELD Homework Help Club: After-school program offering additional academic support for ELL students.
• Community Resource Fair: An event connecting families with local organizations that provide various forms of support, from healthcare to housing assistance.
• Language Exchange Program: A program encouraging students to practice English while sharing their native languages with peers.
• Summer Language Camp: An intensive language learning camp held during the summer to help students maintain and improve their English skills.