Longmeadow Public Schools ELL program undergoes comprehensive review by DESE auditor

In a recent meeting of the Longmeadow Public Schools School Committee, significant discussions centered on the evaluation and improvement of the English Language Learner (ELL) program. The meeting highlighted a comprehensive review conducted by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), which involved interviews with parents, teachers, and administrators, as well as an extensive examination of student documentation.

The DESE auditor, David Balde, praised the program's strengths, noting that parents and teachers expressed satisfaction with the quality of education provided to ELL students. The review revealed that the program is largely compliant with state standards, with no areas of zero compliance. However, there were some areas identified for improvement, particularly in the registration process for new students and the need for more frequent progress monitoring.

One key area for enhancement is the registration process, which currently requires students transferring from states with different assessment standards to undergo additional testing. The committee acknowledged the need for a more streamlined approach to ensure that all students are assessed accurately upon entering the district.

The meeting also addressed the importance of ongoing support for ELL students after they exit the program. The district utilizes data systems like Panorama and PowerSchool to track student progress and ensure continued success in their academic endeavors. Additionally, the committee discussed the necessity of providing translation and interpretation services during school events to better engage non-English speaking families.

Another significant point raised was the need for annual opt-out forms for families who choose not to have their children participate in ELL services. This change aims to ensure that families are regularly informed of their rights and options regarding language support.

The committee emphasized the importance of professional development for teachers, particularly in obtaining SEI (Sheltered English Instruction) endorsements. This certification ensures that ELL students are taught by qualified educators who can effectively meet their unique learning needs.

In conclusion, the Longmeadow Public Schools School Committee's meeting underscored the district's commitment to enhancing its ELL program. With a focus on compliance, continuous improvement, and support for both students and families, the district aims to foster an inclusive educational environment that meets the diverse needs of its learners. The next steps will involve implementing the recommended improvements and monitoring their effectiveness in the coming school year.