Multilingual Learners
As a school district and community, Dedham strives to recognize, embrace and welcome multilingual and non-native English speakers from all cultures. DPS educators continue to enhance the academic and social experiences of incoming students in the district and seek to enrich the relationships with their Multilingual Learner (MLL) families.All multilingual learners will develop the social and academic English language proficiency that will allow them to meet grade level expectations. Students will be given the necessary amount of English support to help them achieve this goal. All English Language Learners will work toward becoming proficient on the WIDA ACCESS test, as well as meeting grade level expectations. An appreciation of diversity in language and culture and adherence to high expectations will set a positive learning environment.
We want to help your children learn English so they can succeed in school and in life!
Program Description
The Multilingual Learners (MLL) Program consists of two parts- English Language Development and Sheltered English Immersion. English Language Development is taught by the school’s certified ESL teacher in small groups of ML students. Students receive between 45 and 90 minutes of instruction daily, depending on English proficiency level. For the rest of the day, teachers trained in Sheltered English techniques, provide comprehensible student instruction.
Your children receive extra help with English throughout the day.
How It Works
- How was my student identified as an multilingual learner?
- What if I don't want my student to participate in the program?
- How often does my student see the MLL teacher?
- How often is my student's English proficiency assessed?
- Does my student have to take additional state tests?
- How long will my student be in the MLL program?
- What happens after my student leaves the MLL program?
- What language should I speak with my student at home?