Secondary English Learners - Arlington Public Schools

Arlington Public Schools uses a collaborative and inclusive approach to support English learners in middle and high school. Certified EL teachers provide services in multiple ways, all designed to help students learn grade-level content—such as language arts, math, science, and social studies—while building the English skills they need for academic and social success. This foundation prepares students to meet future academic milestones and stay on track for graduation. The three models of instructional delivery are outlined below.

Secondary English Learner Instructional Delivery Models

Co-Teaching

In the co-teaching model, the classroom teacher and the English Learner teacher plan and teach the content together. The teachers share instructional responsibility and are both involved in the teaching and assessment of students. The English Learner teacher addresses the language acquisition needs through differentiated instruction. This instruction gives the English learners access to and understanding of the grade-level standards.

Sheltered Instruction

In this model, English learners receive grade-level core content with accommodations and scaffolds that make instruction accessible and reduce language barriers. Students follow the same Standards of Learning (SOLs) as their peers, and courses count toward graduation. Instruction is provided by certified core-content teachers.

English Language Development Instruction

English Language Development instruction uses specialized techniques, methods, and curriculum to build English learners’ skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. ELD courses focus on language development rather than grade-level Standards of Learning (SOLs), providing targeted support to help students acquire academic English. Instruction is provided by ESOL-certified teachers.