Engage. Inspire. Empower.

English Learners

We are dedicated to making education better for all the students we serve - including the more than 3,000 of our students who speak 30+ languages. Our English as a Second Language (ESL) program is offered in grades K-12 and offers personalized learning experiences that honor home language and culture. ESL classes teach language acquisition skills: Reading, writing, listening, and speaking, in appropriately leveled classes. 

How are English Learners identified in Catawba County Schools?

When students enroll in the school system, a parent or guardian completes a Home Language Survey. If they select a language other than English, the student takes the WIDA™ Screener, a state-approved, age-appropriate language proficiency assessment that identifies and places English Learners (ELs). Students are then assessed annually with the ACCESS for ELLs® language proficiency test. Students must meet objectives set by the state to exit EL status.

What EL services do we offer?

We make education better for our English Learners by providing individualized attention that may include working with them within the classroom or pulling them from class to work with a specialized ESL teacher. For more information, please contact our ESL Director. 

International Newcomer Center

The International Newcomer Center is a vital family resource that assesses students’ English proficiency, facilitates placement, and reviews and collects records for the schools. The Center staff provides bilingual communication with students and parents to facilitate enrollment as well as translation and interpretation for parent conferences, student assistance team meetings, and school and district communications. The Center is based at Sweetwater Early Childhood Education Center and serves all 28 schools in the Catawba County School System. 

👉 District Contact

Dr. Dana Greene

Director, English Learners & Dual Language/Immersion

p. 828.855.9387

email

Newcomer Center