ESL: English as Second Language
YPS Espanol Informacion
Elementary through Secondary levels
Ypsilanti Public Schools has had some form of English as a Second Language services for over 20 years. Over 100 students in the district are receiving direct English Language Instruction in K-12. Students who receive these services progress quickly through the program and require less assistance; however, they are still monitored to ensure their academic success.
Keeping lines of communication open between school and home is important to ensure student success. Parent orientation meetings are scheduled to allow parents to learn more about the educational environment and to ask questions. During major enrollment periods, translators are on site to provide parents with an understanding of the necessary steps to register their children in school. Once the school year is underway, ESL staff make personal contacts with families via telephone, letters or home visits. For more information about the K-12 ESL program contact Liz Sirman, sirman@ypsd.org
Adult Education
Ypsilanti Public Schools currently offers three ESL classes to non-traditional students. The following is a brief description of each.
ESL 1 (Literacy): This class is for beginning students who need basic literacy skills in English. The focus is on oral communication and basic recognition of words and numbers.
ESL 2: Students who have some knowledge of the English language will develop listening and speaking skills in this interactive class. Beginning reading and writing is taught along with introduction to U.S. culture and institutions.
ESL 3: This is an intermediate class for students who can communicate effectively but are not yet fluent in English. Teaching emphasis is on listening, speaking, reading and writing. U.S. culture, history and government are interwoven in the curriculum.
To enroll in one of the Adult Education ESL classes, residents must be 20 years old or older and have the appropriate residency documents. Prior to enrolling, all students must take a state mandated test called the Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System. This test measures a student’s basic reading, math, listening, speaking, writing, critical thinking and problem solving skills.
For more information about the Adult Education ESL program call (734) 714-1880,
email, mwilli4@ypsd.org or visit Fletcher School, 1055 Cornell Street, Ypsilanti.