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English Language Learners (ELL)

Our English Language Learners (ELL) Department provide language support services to students whose first language is not English. 

Our goal is to ensure that multilingual learners can fully access academic content, develop strong communication skills, and succeed in all areas of school life. 

Through scheduled instruction, individualized support, and collaboration with classroom teachers, our ELL program helps students overcome language barriers so they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Meet Our Faculty

Our ELL Department is managed by a coordinator with advanced degrees and a passion for literacy, creativity, and global citizenship.

  • Cigdem Ertekin  – ELL Coordinator
    Oversees EL identification, scheduling EL classes, and service delivery, collaborates with teachers to ensure accommodations and classroom support, and monitors student progress throughout the year.

ELL ProgramOur ELL Program is geared to help students succeed in their core academic classes. We closely monitor their schoolwork and ensure they understand assignments, class expectations, and essential vocabulary.

Once students are confidently handling their academic responsibilities, we shift our focus to ELL-specific instruction. This includes targeted lessons in their areas of weakness — such as reading comprehension, writing skills, vocabulary development, and grammar — along with structured practice to prepare them for the WIDA ACCESS Test.

We provide ELL services through:

  • Scheduled ELL Support Classes:
    Individualized or small-group instruction and support
  • Flexible Assessment Support:
    ELL students may receive help during tests or quizzes, including translation support, approved accommodations, and access to needed language tools.
  • Content-Based Language Support:
    Assistance with assignments from core classes, helping students bridge language gaps while learning grade-level material.

WIDA Tests

We must identify students who need language services in a timely manner. In North Carolina, the WIDA Screener is the official assessment used for the initial identification and placement of students who may qualify as English Learners (EL).

After completing the WIDA Screener, students identified as EL must receive appropriate language support services. They are also required to take the ACCESS (Assessing Comprehension and Communication in English State-to-State) Test during the spring semester. ACCESS is the statewide annual assessment used in North Carolina to measure English language proficiency for EL students. Click for more information.

Looking AheadWe are committed to achieving consistent growth in students’ overall English proficiency within a welcoming and inclusive environment that helps multilingual learners feel supported and confident.