English as a New Language
Hamilton County Schools offers English as a New Language (ENL), also referred to as ESL, that provides academic, cultural, social, and support services to K-12 students who are limited English proficient. The WIDA ELD Standards, used in conjunction with Tennessee academic standards, support both language and content in the classroom. ENL specialists plan for and deliver instruction based on the SIOP Model, a research-validated model of instruction currently available for teaching English learners.
Did you know that in Hamilton County Schools…
- Over 8350 students have a non-English language background
- Over 112 languages are represented
- Over 85 countries of origin are represented
- Over 4300 students are eligible to receive ESL direct services
All parents have the right to information about their child’s education in a language they understand. When your child enrolls in school, the school will ask you about the language you would like to use when communicating with the school. This helps your school identify your language needs so they can provide translated documents and/or an interpreter, at no cost to the family.
Parent and Family Resources for English Learners
Frequently Asked Questions of English Language Learners and their Families:
What is the purpose of the ENL program?
HCS offers English as a New Language (ENL) programming during the regular school day. The purpose of this program is to develop and strengthen the students’ understanding, speaking, reading, and writing of academic English.
Who is eligible for ENL support and services?
New students who enroll at HCS are required to complete a Home Language Survey at the time of registration. Based on the information provided on the survey, all students who indicate a language that is not English are assessed with ELPA21 assessments to determine their English proficiency levels in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Eligibility for ENL services is based on the results of these assessments until a student exits with a qualifying score.
Can I refuse ENL services for my child?
Although HCS strongly recommends that all eligible students participate in the ESL program, parents/guardians have the right to “opt out” (waive ENL services) of direct ENL instruction on behalf of their child. If you wish to “opt out” of ENL instruction, please notify your child’s ENL specialist. You will also be asked to sign a letter to ensure that you understand your child’s rights to receive ENL services in the future. Your child will still receive an individualized learning plan and is required to complete the ELPA21 summative assessment until a qualifying exit score is received.
What if I have more questions or need more information?
If you have questions or would like more information about your child’s participation in the Hamilton County Schools ENL program, your best source of information is your child’s school. Please contact your child’s principal, ENL specialist, classroom teacher, or the ENL Department at (423) 498-7360.
Interested in working for the Hamilton County Schools ENL Department?
ENL Department
423-498-7360
A division of the Department of Opportunity and Access
