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Goshen Community Schools

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English Learner Department

English Learner Program

At Goshen Community Schools, English learners are valued members of our community and are supported and empowered to succeed. Our goal is to provide a welcoming environment that promotes language development, academic achievement, and meaningful participation in school and society. Through high expectations, culturally responsive practices, and strong partnerships with families, we ensure that every English learner has the opportunity to thrive. Our mission is to prepare students to become confident, capable, and compassionate contributors in a diverse, global world.

When a new student enrolls and their home language survey indicates a language other than English is spoken, the school uses the WIDA Screener to determine initial English proficiency and whether the student qualifies for EL services. The EL students are serviced by a Certified English Learner teacher and are annually assessed using the WIDA ACCESS to measure listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English

  • The Content-Based English Language Development model is the primary model we use at GCS to serve English learners.

    • Description: This approach makes use of instructional materials, learning tasks, and classroom techniques from academic content areas as the vehicle for developing language, content, cognitive, and study skills. English is used as the medium of instruction.
    • Language of Instruction: English (with some native language support
    • Goal(s): Content-area knowledge; Proficiency in English
    • Possible Implementation Methods: 
      • Dedicated class
      • Co-teaching 
      • Push-in small group 
      • Pull-out small group 

    Other service models are the Newcomers Program, English as a Second Language, and Dual Language Immersion K-6

  • We have a Parent Liaison in each of our buildings to help bridge the gap between home and school by helping parents of language minority students get the information and support they need to ensure their child's academic and social success; to empower parents to become active participants in their child’s education; and to integrate them into the school community.

  • See English Learner Resources

Contact Us!

Dolores Pfenning

Director of EL Services

Deleticia Dolores Pfenning

(574) 533-8631 Ext. 12047

dpfenning@goshenschools.org

Sandra Perez

EL Specialist – GCS Administrative Assistant

Sandra Perez

(574) 533-8631 Ext. 12061

sperez@goshenschools.org