Service Model

Because each of our scholars brings unique strengths, needs, and experiences, FWPS embraces a variety of instructional models to ensure every scholar receives the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

FWPS employs the “Supportive mainstream” instructional model for most ML scholars. In this model, scholars access grade level content and English Language Development (ELD) simultaneously within their mainstream classes.

This model allows us to fulfill our obligation to provide English language development and meaningful access to content through a variety of support tailored to the needs of our scholars. (OSPI, Meeting the Civil Rights Requirements for Multilingual Learners in WA State”)

Here are ways “supportive mainstream” is implemented:

SECONDARY LEVEL:

• Newcomers Classes: We offer two courses that are designed for scholars who have been in the United States less than one year and demonstrate a need for English Language development. These courses are typically offered for one or two semesters.
  • Academic Language
  • Social Acculturation
• Sheltered classes:  Content area teachers receive specialized training in delivering instruction that builds English language proficiency as well as content knowledge.
• Co-Planning/Co-teaching Partnerships: A classroom teacher and an ML specialist collaborate to plan and deliver instruction that integrates language development with content learning, ensuring that MLs receive targeted support within the general education setting.
• ML Paraeducator Push-In: ML Paras are placed in classrooms to offer one-on-one or small group support.
• General Classes:  ML specialists track the growth of our ML scholars through data and collaboration with their classroom teachers.
• ML Achievement Course: This course is designed for ML scholars who are proficient in everyday, conversational English but require support with academic language. Scholars who have taken the WIDA assessment for five or more years without yet reaching proficiency, and who demonstrate a continued need for academic support, may be invited to enroll. The course focuses on building academic language and study skills essential for school success.

ELEMENTARY LEVEL:

• Newcomer Groups: Many of our elementary schools offer small group instruction for scholars who are new to the United States and demonstrate a need for English Language development.
• Co-Planning/Co-teaching Partnerships: A classroom teacher and an ML specialist collaborate to plan and deliver instruction that integrates language development with content learning, ensuring that MLs receive targeted support within the general education setting.
• ML Paraeducator Push-In: ML Paras are placed in classrooms to offer one-on-one or small group support.
• Sheltered classes:  Classroom teachers receive specialized training in delivering instruction that builds English language proficiency as well as content knowledge.
• English Language Development (ELD) Groups: An ML specialist may work with a small group of scholars with a demonstrated academic language needs for 30-40 minute small group instruction during Tier 2 time.
• General Classes:  ML specialists track the growth of our ML scholars through data and collaboration with their classroom teachers.