English Learning/Dual Language Programs

  • Dual Language Program
    Available to PreK-5th grade Spanish-speaking students who qualify, these classrooms offer instruction in all subjects in Spanish and English simultaneously. This program is offered at Apollo and Nelson Schools. If your child attends Mark Twain, Melzer, or Washington School, and you are interested in finding out more about enrolling him/her in the dual language program, contact either your Principal or the ELL Teacher at your school. If your child qualifies, transportation will be provided to either Apollo or Nelson Schools. 
     
    The guiding principles of our Dual Language program in District 63 are the following - 
    • Bilingualism and Biliteracy 
    • High Academic Achievement for all students 
    • Sociocultural competence 
     

    English Language (EL) Services 

    The goal of our English Learning program is to provide students with a safe, risk-free learning environment that supports language development and academic achievement. Qualifying students who speak a language other than English may receive English language support services from one of the following or both: 

    • English Language Learning (ELL) or Bilingual certified resource teachers provide support within the classroom or pull students out of the classroom - Urdu, Spanish, Gujarati, and Assyrian are examples of the types of language support commonly provided by our Bilingual certified staff. 
    • ELL endorsed classroom teachers that are specially trained in the area of language acquisition and embed language development and learning into daily lessons. 
     
    Services vary by year and by school, depending on the school population.
     
    For more information about ELL/Bilingual Services in District 63, contact your child's school, Director of ELL/Bilingual Services Erin Sterling, 847.493.8406, or Mayra Jaimes Antúnez, Assistant to the Director, 847.493.8421. 
     
     
    Students who do not qualify for ELL/Bilingual services will be placed in the general education program. These students will not receive any type of ELL or bilingual instruction/services.

     
    Please note: parents have the right to refuse ELL or Bilingual Services. Please notify the school if you would not like your child to receive English language or Bilingual services.