Sheltered English Instruction (SEI)
Haverhill Public Schools provides Sheltered English instruction to Multilingual Learners identified as English Learners. SEI is an educational approach designed to help English Learners (ELs) learn academic content in English while simultaneously developing their English language skills. It involves modifying teaching strategies and materials to make the content more comprehensible for students who are still developing their English proficiency.
English Language Development (ELD)
Haverhill Public Schools employs a variety of models for providing ELD instruction that will meet the second language acquisition needs of its enrolled MLs. Instructional models include: small group or individual pull-out program, ELD instruction in the mainstream classroom, co-teach instruction, and sheltered instruction within the mainstream classroom. All instructional models or approaches are decided on a case by case basis according to what best services the ML student. Much consideration is given to their mainstream classes and schedule. See this resource to learn more about programming/instructional approaches for MLs.
Intensity of ELD instruction matches each student’s level of proficiency in English and follows the recommended instructional time by MA DESE: Newcomers (“Entering”) and beginning (“Emerging”) receive at least 2 class periods of EL instruction per day. Early intermediate (“Developing”) and intermediate (“Expanding”) and advanced students (“Bridging”) students receive at least 1 class period per day.
ELD teachers and classroom/content teachers collaborate regularly to provide instruction that is appropriate for MLs/ respective levels of proficiency and aligned with the mainstream curriculum.
The REAL Program
Haverhill High School offers the Rigorous English and Academic Learning (REAL) courses receive instruction under the Sheltered English Immersion model for the full day. The program provides intensive instruction in English language development (ELD) and in literacy acquisition. They also provide consistent instruction in numeracy and instruction in foundational concepts for Science and Social Studies. REAL courses offer the necessary individualization, flexibility, academic scaffolding, and social-emotional support within a culturally and linguistically supportive framework, that facilitate students’ transitioning to the U.S. and to American culture. Students transition from REAL courses to other appropriate programs once they achieve the necessary linguistic and academic foundation to access the mainstream curriculum or pursue a high school diploma.
Seal of Biliteracy
The State Seal of Biliteracy is an award provided by Haverhill High School that recognizes high school graduates who demonstrate proficiency in English and additional languages by high school graduation. The State Seal of Biliteracy takes the form of a seal that appears on the transcript or diploma of the graduating senior and is a statement of accomplishment for future employers and for college admissions.