ESL and Bilingual Programs

     Students who enter the public schools speaking primarily a language other than English may be in need of additional assistance in learning English and in maintaining progress in the regular program.  Garfield has an English as a Second Language (ESL) program available in all grades and in all public schools. In order to determine which students need the ESL program, a language test is given within the school. Children who qualify receive specialized daily instruction in all aspects of English:  understanding, speaking, reading, and writing; which will better prepare them for their school careers and their life in the United States.

     The district also has two Bilingual Programs, located in magnet elementary schools.   Polish bilingual students who participate are in Schools #4 and #8, and Spanish bilingual students are in Schools #6 and #7. The Bilingual Program uses two languages to present skills in language arts and mathematics.

     At the Middle School and High School, students in the ESL program receive two daily periods of instruction. The classes are regularly scheduled courses and the students receive credit for them.

     Parents will receive a letter home whenever a student is enrolled in an ESL or Bilingual Program.

     If you would like further information about these programs, please call Geri Ledford, EBB Supervisor, at (973) 340-5000, ext. 2030 or E-Mail GLEDFORD@GBOE.ORG.

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