English Learners (EL)
English Learners (EL)
Happy Hmong Heritage Month!
Since the arrival of the first Hmong family in 1976, the Hmong people have lived and worked in Wisconsin for over 45 years, and have greatly contributed to the state's rich history, culture, economy, and public service.
-Hmong American Center, Inc.
The SDMA schools are celebrating this month by sharing Hmong art, culture, music, language and artifacts from the Hmong Cultural Heritage Trunk through hallway displays, classroom lessons, and books featuring Hmong authors.
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Hmong and English Signage at Wakanda Elementary
Display of books about Hmong culture and by Hmong authors at Oaklawn Media Center.
EL Program Goal
The goal for the school district's English Learner (EL) program is to ensure that students will be prepared to experience success in all areas of the curriculum while maintaining their cultural identity.
Guiding Philosophy
Over 10% of students in the Menomonie Area School District speak a language other than English as their primary home language. A significant number of these K-12 students need assistance to be successful with the English-only K-12 curriculum. EL instruction emphasizes improving English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills, and strives to honor ethnic identity. EL students are provided with authentic opportunities to use the English language in a variety of academic and social contexts.
EL Placement Guidelines
Program placement is based on:
- ACCESS English Language proficiency testing (WIDA website)
- Classroom observations
- Classroom teacher consultation
- History of language accommodations needed
- Parent permission