School District Implements ESL Services To Support Language Proficiency For Students
September 08, 2025 | Aberdeen School District 06-1, School Districts, South Dakota
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The Aberdeen School Board meeting on September 8, 2025, focused on the district's English as a Second Language (ESL) program and its impact on student language proficiency. Key discussions highlighted the assessment processes and support services provided to English learners.
During the meeting, it was explained that the district administers two main assessments to identify students needing ESL services. The WIDA screener is given to students whose home language survey indicates a language other than English. If a student qualifies, they begin receiving ESL support, which continues until they meet exit criteria. The ACCESS test, a state-mandated assessment, is conducted annually in January and February to measure language proficiency. Students must achieve a score of 5 or higher on this test or a combined score of 3 or 4 from their English Language Arts (ELA) assessments and a score of 4 or higher on the ACCESS test to exit the program. In the 2024-2025 school year, 11% of students exited the ESL program.
The district aims to provide all students with the skills necessary to succeed in a global community. To achieve this vision, the ESL program offers both one-on-one and small group services, focusing on reading, speaking, listening, and writing skills. Students may receive support two to five times a week, depending on their individual needs. Additionally, push-in services are provided, where ESL teachers co-teach in classrooms to ensure that language needs are met in larger group settings.
A notable project discussed involved second-grade students exploring their cultural backgrounds. Students read stories about different cultures, created graphic organizers about their families, and shared personal belongings that represent their heritage. This culminated in the creation of an iMovie showcasing their projects.
The meeting also addressed the typical duration of ESL services, with state guidelines suggesting that students may require 5 to 7 years to achieve academic proficiency. It was noted that while students may appear socially ready, mastering academic vocabulary takes additional time.
Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to supporting English learners through tailored educational opportunities and community involvement, ensuring that all students can reach their full potential.
During the meeting, it was explained that the district administers two main assessments to identify students needing ESL services. The WIDA screener is given to students whose home language survey indicates a language other than English. If a student qualifies, they begin receiving ESL support, which continues until they meet exit criteria. The ACCESS test, a state-mandated assessment, is conducted annually in January and February to measure language proficiency. Students must achieve a score of 5 or higher on this test or a combined score of 3 or 4 from their English Language Arts (ELA) assessments and a score of 4 or higher on the ACCESS test to exit the program. In the 2024-2025 school year, 11% of students exited the ESL program.
The district aims to provide all students with the skills necessary to succeed in a global community. To achieve this vision, the ESL program offers both one-on-one and small group services, focusing on reading, speaking, listening, and writing skills. Students may receive support two to five times a week, depending on their individual needs. Additionally, push-in services are provided, where ESL teachers co-teach in classrooms to ensure that language needs are met in larger group settings.
A notable project discussed involved second-grade students exploring their cultural backgrounds. Students read stories about different cultures, created graphic organizers about their families, and shared personal belongings that represent their heritage. This culminated in the creation of an iMovie showcasing their projects.
The meeting also addressed the typical duration of ESL services, with state guidelines suggesting that students may require 5 to 7 years to achieve academic proficiency. It was noted that while students may appear socially ready, mastering academic vocabulary takes additional time.
Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to supporting English learners through tailored educational opportunities and community involvement, ensuring that all students can reach their full potential.
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