MISD ESL Program

The MISD ESL Program goal is to develop non-English language students, enrolled in English-only classrooms, into fluent speakers, readers, writers and listeners.

McKinney ISD offers Limited English Proficient (LEP) students the following services:

• Bilingual education in dual language (English and Spanish) - Pre-Kindergarten through 5th grade
• Bilingual education program as a transitional program which uses English and Spanish and addresses the affective, linguistic an cognitive needs of LEP students
• Bilingual all-day programs offered at the following MISD elementary schools:
  • Caldwell Elementary
  • Finch Elementary
  • Webb Elementary
  • Burks Elementary
  • Malvern Elementary
  • Slaughter Elementary
• ESL instruction to all LEP students in grades K-12 regardless of the student's grade level and home language.
• ESL instruction offered in grades K-12 which addresses the affective, linguistic and cognitive needs of LEP students

MISD Guiding Principals for Bilingual and ESL Programs

1. Being proficient in the first and second language produces higher academic achievement.
2. Language proficiency means having both basic interpersonal communications skills and cognitive academic language skills.
3. Academic proficiency in the first language forms the basis for academic proficiency in the second language.
4. A second language is learned best through lots of exposure and a supportive environment.
5. When students feel good about themselves, their achievement improves.

Program Objectives:

1. Entry is based on the following criteria:
   • Home Language Survey stating language other than English is spoken at home.
   • Oral language proficiency scores English.
   • ITBS scores in grades 2 and above if orally fluent in English.
   • Parental consent within 10 days of starting services.
2. Exit from a Bilingual/ESL programdepends on recommended of the Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC) based on the following criteria:
   • Score in the 40% or higher on a standardized test (ITBS) (2nd grade ESL only).
   • Mastery of oral language proficiency in English using state-approved test.
   • Demonstrate competency in reading and writing in English.
   • Passing TAKS reading (grades 3-12) and writing (grades 4, 7, 10, and 11) in English.