SSIS as a diverse and lively community made up of students from different countries. For those joining us with emerging English skills, the journey can feel overwhelming.They may hesitate to speak up in class，even when they understand the concepts. Academic vocabulary gaps can hinder their participation in subjects like Science or Individuals & Societies (I&S), leaving them feeling disconnected. Additionally, they must navigate unfamiliar teaching styles and social dynamics, which can further complicate their adjustment.
“It’s not just about grammar or vocabulary; it’s about helping students feel safe to take risks.”
At the heart of the SSIS community lies a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. This dedication is especially evident in the support provided to English Lab students, who face unique challenges as they navigate their educational journeys.
The English Lab is designed to support students in Grades 6 to 10. Our program pathways are clearly defined. For students in Grades 6 to 8, the goal is to transition to grade level English classes with a WIDA score of 4.0. For Grades 9 to 10, students need to achieve a WIDA score of 4.5 and demonstrate readiness for grade-level rigor. We also consider they grades in Science, Maths and I&S to show readiness to move into Grade level English
In last school year, we have served 152 students, including 73 new enrollees. We celebrated 63 success stories as students transitioned into grade level English classes. Typically, most students advance one proficiency level within 6 to 12 months, showcasing the effectiveness of our approach.
Students entering the English Lab program typically have varied English proficiency levels. Some may arrive with emergent proficiency, while others are at the developing level. The English Lab and Intensive English classes are specifically designed to address these varying levels of proficiency.
- English Lab: This mixed-ability class focuses on helping students build their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
- Intensive English: The focus here is on developing social and instructional language skills, as well as basic vocabulary and sentence structure.
“We recognize that multilingual learners bring valuable perspectives to our school community,” said Carmen Fox, Head of Student Services. Our goal is to promote equity by ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education that meets their unique linguistic needs.
To achieve this, SSIS focuses on creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences that leverage students’ cultural and educational backgrounds. By integrating their prior knowledge into the curriculum, teachers aim to make lessons relevant and accessible. This approach not only boosts engagement but also fosters a sense of belonging among students.
