Bilingual/English as a Second Language  

Mission Statement:

Poteet Independent School District is committed to addressing the needs of students who are identified as Limited English Proficient (LEP) and to providing an equal educational opportunity by providing an English as a Second Language (ESL) (Grades 6-12), Dual Language(PK-5) and BiLingual programs that emphasizes the mastery of basic English language skills that will enable students to participate effectively in the regular program and to master the essential knowledge and skills of the state curriculum.

Program Goals:

1. Provide a positive learning environment for all students.

2. Integrate language arts across the curriculum.

3. Reading and writing as daily activities.

4. Develop fluency and literacy.

5. Critical thinking and problem solving are essential.

6. Cultural awareness is an integral part of the program.

7. Parental involvement is vital.

Purpose and Intent of the Program:

The intent and purpose of the Poteet Independent School District Bilingual/ESL Program is to identify Limited English Proficient (LEP) students; provide English as a Second Language (ESL) (Grades 6-12), Dual Language (PK - 5) and BiLingual Programs; ensure that LEP students are afforded full opportunity to master the essential skills and knowledge required by the state; and assess achievement of these students to ensure accountability for LEP students and the schools that serve them.

Role of the Program in Improving Student Achievement:

The role of the programs in improving student achievement is to provide instruction to LEP students through bilingual education, dual language, and ESL programs to ensure that students are afforded full opportunity to master the essential skills and knowledge and pass state assessment requirements.

Program Design:

The school district shall provide each Limited English Proficient student the opportunity to be enrolled in the Dual Language (PK- 5), English as a Second Language (Grades 6-12) and BiLingual programs at his or her grade level. Each student's level of proficiency shall be designated by the language proficiency assessment committee. The district shall modify the instruction, pacing, and materials to ensure that limited English proficient students have a full opportunity to master the essential knowledge and skills of the required curriculum.

The Dual Language, Bilingual, and English as a Second Language programs shall consider the students' learning experiences and shall incorporate the cultural aspects of the students' backgrounds. The programs shall be an intensive program of instruction in English and/or native language from teachers trained in recognizing and dealing with language differences.

The Dual Language, English as a Second Language, and BiLingual programs shall be an intensive program of instruction designed to develop proficiency in the comprehension, speaking, reading, and composition in the English language and/or their native language. Instruction shall be commensurate with the students' level of English and/or native language proficiency and his or her level of academic achievement. The students' level of English and/or native language proficiency and academic achievement shall be designated by the language proficiency assessment committee.

The Dual Language, English as a Second Language, and BiLingual programs shall be developmentally appropriate and students in these programs shall be challenged to perform at a level commensurate with their linguistic proficiency and academic potential. The program shall address the affective, linguistic, and cognitive needs of Limited English Proficient students.

Dual Language, English as a Second Language, and BiLingual strategies, which may involve the use of the students' home language, may be provided in any of the courses or electives required for promotion or graduation to assist the Limited English Proficient students master the essential knowledge and skill for the required subject(s). The use of Dual Language, English as a Second Language, and BiLingual program strategies shall not impede the awarding of credit toward meeting promotion of graduation requirements.

In subjects such as art, music, and physical education, the Limited English Proficient student shall participate with their English-speaking peers in regular classes provided in the subjects. The district shall ensure that students enrolled in the Dual Language, English as a Second Language, and BiLingual programs have a meaningful opportunity to participate with other students in all extracurricular activities.

The Dual Language, English as a Second Language, and BiLingual program programs shall be provided to every Limited English Proficient student with parental approval until such time that the student meets exit criteria.

If you are in need of additional information, please contact the Special Programs and Student Support Services Office at (830)276-8767 or your child's principal or counselor.