English Language Learning supports students whose first language is a language other than English, students whose families speak a language other than English, and students who have moved to the United States from other countries.  The program seeks to honor all the language experiences our students bring to the classroom and build respect for the different ways that language and culture are expressed in our world.

English Language Learning (ELL) services are provided in and out of students' core classes.  Instruction focuses on the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing, as well as grammar.  Support for core class work is also provided.

The English Language Learning teacher works collaboratively with all teachers at MSMS to support ELL students in their academic and social development.  The ELL teacher also works with students' families to support the connections between home and school cultures.

Click to read the ELL Dispatch, a monthly newsletter designed to support language and culture teaching and learning at MSMS:

     May 2012 - Burlington ELL Students Protest; The New Kids (book review); World Fair Trade Day

     April 2012 - Why Bilinguals are Smarter; Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program; World Health Day

     March 2012 - The ACCESS for ELLs Assessment; Cesar Chavez Day

     February 2012 - Using and Teaching Complex Language; African American History Month

     January 2012 - Promoting a Culture of Success for ELLs; Teaching about Religion

     December 2011 - The Zone of Proximal Development and ELLs; Questions to Gauge Understanding

     November 2011 - Culture Shock; Islamic Holidays and the Lunar Calendar

     October 2011 - Social vs. Academic Language; Teaching about Columbus Day