An English Language Learner (ELL) is a limited English proficient (LEP) student whose native language is a language other than English, and who is not currently able to perform ordinary classroom work in English. Lowell High School offers English Language Learners (ELLs) in grades nine through twelve a comprehensive academic program to build English language proficiency and academic content knowledge. English Language Learners develop English proficiency while learning the general curriculum. Instruction also recognizes that language modalities (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) develop interdependently and, therefore, should be integrated to promote skill development.

English Language Learners at Lowell High School participate in one or more program models that support English language and content knowledge development. Students’ English language proficiency is assessed and academic background reviewed in order to recommend an appropriate program placement in English Language Development (ELD) classes, Sheltered English Instruction (SEI) content classes, and/or English Language Development support classes.

The Massachusetts English Language Proficiency Benchmarks and Outcomes for English Language Learners serves as a basis for planning curriculum and instruction for LEP students. English Language Development courses and electives are organized around four language domains identified in this document: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. These benchmarks and outcomes serve as a progression to the Massachusetts English Language Arts Curriculum Frameworks learning standards. Academic content curriculum offered to ELLs in Sheltered English Instruction (SEI) content classes align with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for mathematics, science and technology, history and social studies, and health. The ELL Program offers courses that satisfy graduation requirements and credits. Elective courses support the development of English language proficiency.

The English Language Learners’ Program at Lowell High School strives to offer ELLs opportunities to excel in academic, cultural, and social development in order to become successful, productive members of their school and community. It recognizes the linguistic, academic, and cultural diversity of its students and strives to support all ELLs at Lowell High so they attain their personal goals during and after high school.

In addition to intensive English Language Development courses and Sheltered English content courses, the program offers ELLs in the mainstream program a variety of support classes to ensure continued development of their academic English proficiency and second language literacy. These courses are indicated with an ** after the course number. ELLs recently enrolled in a mainstream English language arts course are required to register for at least ONE of the following ELD support courses: 8041/8042, 8041CB/8042CB, 8051/8052, 8051CB/8052CB, 8131, and 8111. Exemptions to this requirement are only with the approval of the ELL Department Chair.