English Language Learner Programs

Saint Paul Public Schools Choice Catalog

English Language Learner Programs
English Language Learner Department (ELL):
The English Language Learner (ELL) Department offers English as a Second Language (ESL) programs for students who speak another language and are learning English. The goal is to help beginning English Language Learners (ELLs) acquire English rapidly. These services are available in all schools. For more information about our ELL programs, please contact the English Language Learner Department at (651) 767-8320. In addition, SPPS offers several different types of ESL programs for recently arrived immigrants and Spanish-speaking Latino students. These programs are described below:

Language Academy (LA):
Language Academies are for recently arrived immigrant students in grades 1-6 who speak very little English. Each Language Academy classroom is comprised of both English Language Learners and native English speakers. ELL students work on the same assignments as their classmates with assistance from ELL teachers and bilingual educational assistants.

Latino Consent Decree (LCD):
The Latino Consent Decree program in SPPS is designed for Spanish-speaking students who need additional academic support. LCD students are taught in English with Spanish support as needed, ensuring that students have the essential skills and knowledge needed for graduation. LCD students also learn about Latino culture and history.

English Language Center (ELC):
The English Language Centers provide social and academic language support to recently arrived English Language Learners in grades 7-12. The program eases the transition for newcomer students while allowing them to work toward graduation. ELC students spend approximately 75% of the school day in English language classes, developing English skills while they study challenging content material such as geography, science, health and math.

International Academy-LEAP (IA-LEAP):
International Academy-LEAP is an alternative program designed for recently-arrived English language learners ages 14 to 21. Students take English language and content-area classes to improve their English skills and earn a high school diploma. While English is the main focus of classes at IA-LEAP, native language support services are available to students and parents.