ESL/Bilingual Program

The English as a Second Language (ESL)/Bilingual program is helping students develop English language proficiency. To accomplish this, students have the choice of participating in either the ESL program or the transitional bilingual program. 

ESL instruction is a special approach for developing English language proficiency. At Middletown, English Language Learners (ELLs) attend special classes aimed at developing English grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, and communication skills. Students receive academic instruction in all other mainstream classes taught in English, with the support of classroom aides and native language materials as needed.

The transitional bilingual education program is designed to develop English language proficiency and offer some instruction in Spanish. The amount of instruction in English increases as the child gains proficiency in the language. Once a student has achieved English proficiency, as measured by the New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT), he or she is moved into mainstream, English-only classes.

The ESL/Bilingual department is bilingual in English and Spanish.

Staff:
Kristin Kerr: Director
Phone: (845) 326-1307

Elizabeth Vives-Valentin: Bilingual Clerk
Phone: (845) 326-1302

Maria Tejada: Bilingual Home School Liason
Phone: (845) 326-1309

Read about our two-way bilingual program launch >