• English Language Learners (ELL) and Bilingual Education

     

    The ELL/Bilingual Education program in the Franklin Township Public Schools serves students in Kindergarten through Grade Twelve. There are fifty-seven languages spoken in the school district. The languages of highest concentration are, in descending order: Spanish, Gujarati, Krio, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, and Mandarin.

               

    The goal of the ELL program is to provide understanding of the English language to students of limited English proficiency. Classes parallel the mainstream classes taught in English, while focusing on the expansion of both the students' English vocabulary and awareness of American culture.

               

    ELL teachers work closely with the teaching staff of their schools to ensure a smooth transition to the mainstream English-only program as quickly as possible.

               

    At the high school level, specially structured classes in math, science, and social studies are provided to beginner level ELL students to ensure the possibility of graduation. Taught by certified teachers in math, science, and social studies, with support from ELL teachers, these courses parallel those of the mainstream.

               

    At every level, students' progress is measured by using multiple criteria, which includes a state-approved test. Once they demonstrate proficiency in English, students are transferred out of the ELL program and begin to follow the same schedule as all other students at that grade level.