From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Tue Mar  3 13:09:56 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Tue, 3 Mar 2009 13:09:56 -0500
Subject: [esl.communication] =?utf-8?q?Webinar_March_24=2C_2009_at_2_pm_ET?=
	=?utf-8?q?_Language_issues_when_working_with_refugees_and_immigran?=
	=?utf-8?q?ts_in_the_health/mental_health_=EF=AC=81eld?=
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C09497@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>

From: CHHCS [mailto:chhcs at gwu.edu] 
Subject: The Center for Health and Health Care in Schools is sponsoring a Webinar March 24, 2009 at 2 pm ET

 

The Center for Health and Health Care in Schools is sponsoring a Webinar March 24, 2009 at 2 pm ET:
Language issues when working with refugees and immigrants in the health/mental health ?eld 

This webinar will focus on how various systems (i.e., school, mental health, health systems) meet the challenge of addressing language needs of immigrant and refugee families through interpretation services. Please view the attached announcement for information about the presenter, Dr. Yeshashwork Kibour, and the learning objectives for this webinar.  To register, visit https://rwjf.webex.com/rwjf/onstage/
g.php?d=573442987=a OR https://rwjf.webex.com/rwjf/onstage/g.php?d=573442987&t=a

Center for Health and Health Care in Schools
202-466-3396
chhcs at gwu.edu
www.healthinschools.org

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From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Tue Mar  3 13:20:28 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Tue, 3 Mar 2009 13:20:28 -0500
Subject: [esl.communication] What's an English-Proficiency Score Good For?
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C0949B@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>

What's an English-Proficiency Score Good For?
How students score in reading and writing on an
English-language-proficiency test is a good indicator of how they will
score on their state's tests for reading, writing, and mathematics that
are given to all students. That's what a study of 5th and 8th graders
<http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/edlabs/projects/project.asp?projectID=172&produc
tID=125>  who took the English-proficiency test developed by the
World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment consortium
<http://www.wida.us/> , or WIDA, concluded. Researchers for the study,
which was commissioned by the U.S. Department of Education's Institute
of Education Sciences, found that students' scores in the domains of
reading and writing on the test were stronger predictors in how they did
on regular academic tests than their scores in speaking and listening on
the test.
For more go to:

http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/learning-the-language/2009/02/whats_an_en
glishproficiency_sc.html



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From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Thu Mar  5 11:29:16 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Thu, 5 Mar 2009 11:29:16 -0500
Subject: [esl.communication] minutes from telecon call Feb 12
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C094D1@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>

The attached is worth skimming/reading, lots of professional development
news and some program help/ideas included:

 <<Conf call minutes 2-12-09.doc>> 

Nancy Mullins
Director ESL/Bilingual Programs
Maine Department of Education
23 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0023
Phone: (207) 624-6788
FAX: (207) 624-6789
nancy.mullins at maine.gov


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From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Mon Mar  9 15:27:42 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Mon, 9 Mar 2009 15:27:42 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] FW: Alternate ACCESS for ELLs Item Development
	Educator Workshop
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C094EE@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>



Note: I realize that probably none of us will be able to get funding or
approval to attend this workshop but I wanted to share with you the
developmental stages of the Alternate ACCESS for ELLs (to be used for
assessing English Language Proficiency for students who are both ELL and
have significant disabilities). Nancy Mullins

Dear ESL Professionals:

This message is being sent to a variety of recipients, including 
Administrators, Educators and other advocates for ELL students.  Please 
feel free to forward the email to other persons who may be interested.

Attached, you will  find an invitation to the WIDA Alternate ACCESS for 
ELLs Assessment Item Development Educator Workshop which will be held at

The University of Wisconsin-Madison on April 2nd and 3rd, 2009.   Topics

of discussion and development will include refining and preparing items 
for use in the 2009 field test of the Alternate ACCESS for ELLs 
Assessment.  

As we have tried to put this workshop together with a tight time frame 
and have limited space, we would appreciate RSVP s from participants by 
Thursday, March 12, 2009.  Requests received after that date will be 
considered on a case-by-case basis.  Please understand that travel and 
lodging expenses will be covered/reimbursed through the project. 

Once our office receives your request to attend, we will forward 
logistics and travel information to you.  Please direct any questions or

concerns to Jessica Wohlferd, Program Manager (see contact information 
below). 

Best,

Jessica Wohlferd
Program Manager
WIDA Alternate ACCESS Assessment
Wisconsin Center for Education Research
University of Wisconsin-Madison
572 Educational Sciences
1025 W. Johnson St.
Madison, WI 53706

wohlferd at wisc.edu
office (608) 263-4258
fax (608) 263-3733

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From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Tue Mar 10 11:58:52 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Tue, 10 Mar 2009 11:58:52 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] NCELA Webinar March 17, 2009
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C09502@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>

  

ANNOUNCING...

 

How to Welcome and Support Head Start Dual Language Learners when they
get to Elementary School

 

An interactive web conference from NCELA

________________________________

 

Date: March 17, 2009

 

Time: 2:00 ~ 3:00 PM EST

 

To Participate, please register at: 
https://edcount.webex.com/edcount/onstage/g.php?t=a&d=967147856

You will receive an e-mail with instructions for how to configure your
computer to attend the event.

 

________________________________

The purpose of this webinar will be to share information on the number
and proportion of children in prekindergarten and early elementary
schools who are dual language learners (DLLs) - that is, children who
are learning a second language while in the process of acquiring their
first - is increasing rapidly.  In this webinar Sharon Yandian from the
Office of Head Start and Keira Ballantyne from the National
Clearinghouse for English Language Acquisition will discuss ways in
which educators can provide a successful transition from Head Start
programs to elementary school.  Presenters will share information on the
population of DLLs, some key characteristics of Head Start programs that
elementary school educators should be aware of and research findings on
instruction to support the successful learning of DLLs.

 

Participants are strongly encouraged to submit questions prior to the
webinar to facilitate comprehensive responses. These questions should be
sent to Sara Waring at swaring at edcount.com by March 13, 2009.
Participants may also submit questions during the live event.

 

 

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From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Thu Mar 12 09:11:39 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Thu, 12 Mar 2009 09:11:39 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] Admin Letter 40 - Exclusion of Unimmunized and
	Under-immunized Students for Vaccine Preventable Communicable
	Diseases
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C09530@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>

TO: Superintendents of Schools, Private Schools, Special Purpose Private Schools, and School Nurses
FROM: Commissioner Susan A. Gendron, Department of Education
DATE: March 11, 2009
RE: Exclusion of Unimmunized and Under-immunized Students for Vaccine Preventable Communicable Diseases

In accordance with school law (20-A MRSA, Chapter 223, Subchapter 2, ?6352-?6359) all students attending school in Maine, in kindergarten through twelfth grade, are required to have proof of vaccine for some infectious diseases. The law further states that "the chief administrative officer shall cause the student to be excluded from school during the period of danger or until the student receives the necessary immunizing agent." (See 20-A MRSA, ?6359.4 Exclusion from school.) 

The vaccine preventable communicable diseases for school age children are:

*	Diphtheria, 
*	Pertussis (Whooping Cough) 
*	Tetanus 
*	Polio 
*	Measles 
*	Rubella 
*	Mumps 
*	Varicella (Chicken Pox) 

The school nurse must report these diseases to the Maine Center for Disease Control (Maine CDC). The school unit must contact the Maine CDC at 1-800-821-5821 for guidance on how to proceed with excluding unimmunized or under-immunized students in the event of an outbreak of any of these communicable diseases. Each of the above diseases carries a different transmission pattern, and each outbreak requires a response equal to the scope of the event. 

If you have further questions, please contact Nancy Dube RN, School Nurse Consultant, at 207-624-6688, or nancy.dube at maine.gov , or the Maine CDC at 1-800-821-5821, or Kathleen Mahoney, Comprehensive Health Planner 1, DHHS, at 287-3746, or kathleen.mahoney at maine.gov .

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From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Thu Mar 12 15:09:19 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Thu, 12 Mar 2009 15:09:19 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] March 18, 2009 teleconference call
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C0953C@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>


MEMORANDUM

To:	ESL Educators
From:	Nancy Mullins, Director ESL/Bilingual Programs
Date:	March 12, 2009
Re:	March 18, 2009 teleconference call

Wednesday, March 18, 2009 from 4pm to 5pm there will be an ESL
conference call.

To participate:	Dial into the conference call from any telephone:
		Dial:  1-866-416-5758
		Enter Passcode:  364405

Currently, the AGENDA for the conference call is:
*	ACCESS for ELLs(r) score reports
*	FLAME conference attendance
*	March 24  Strategies for Secondary Mathematics:  Working with
ELLs; in Freeport *
*	March 26-28, 2009  TESOL Convention in Denver, Colorado 
*	April 2 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  Academic language and academic
literacy [Don Bouchard]
*	May 2, Saturday,  NNETESOL, 8:30 am to 2pm at Portland USM:
Steps to Academic Success for ELLs
*	May 6 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  Strategies for struggling ELLs [Don
Bouchard]
*	Foreign adoption - MAPS
*	Project Opportunity courses 
		
The next ESL conference call will be on Thursday, April 16, 2009 

The grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do,
something to love, and something to hope for. 
For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the
stars makes me dream. ~ Vincent Van Gogh


* Strategies for Secondary Mathematics:  Working with ELLs
When:  March 24, 2009 8:30am to 3:00pm
Where:  Hilton Garden Inn Freeport Downtown
For more information and to register online visit:
www.mainesupportnetwork.org 


To better meet the needs of all Maine ESL educators and English language
learners, your comments and feedback are important.  Please email me any
issues, concerns, items that serve a "communication" purpose, topics for
discussion or items for information sharing.  


Nancy Mullins
Director ESL/Bilingual Programs
Maine Department of Education
23 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0023
Phone: (207) 624-6788
FAX: (207) 624-6789
nancy.mullins at maine.gov


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From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Wed Mar 18 17:19:19 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2009 17:19:19 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] NY Times article
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C0957F@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>

There was an interesting article in the NY Times over the weekend called
"Where Education and Assimilation Collide"
(http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/15/us/15immig.html?_r=1&emc=eta1).  For
those of you who didn't read it, one of the article's main points had to
do with the dilemma between doing what might be best for students
academically versus what might be best for them in terms of integration
(or assimilation as they say).  


Nancy Mullins
Director ESL/Bilingual Programs
Maine Department of Education
23 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0023
Phone: (207) 624-6788
FAX: (207) 624-6789
nancy.mullins at maine.gov


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From Susan.Gail.Funtsch at maine.gov  Tue Mar 24 16:34:56 2009
From: Susan.Gail.Funtsch at maine.gov (Funtsch, Susan Gail)
Date: Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:34:56 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] FW: Thursday April 2 - "Academic Language and
	Academic Literacy" webinar with Don Bouchard
Message-ID: <32E5C6B0B949584D9B6168C5F727916B057DAFB9@SOM-TEAQASMAIL1.som.w2k.state.me.us>

Please join us for 
"Academic Language and Academic Literacy" 
An ESL/Bilingual Program professional development online webinar 
Thursday, April 2, 2009, 4:00-5:30 p.m.

"Academic Language and Academic Literacy" examines the characteristics
and challenges of content-based English that are necessary for student
academic achievement. This session will provide techniques and
strategies associated with academic language and academic literacy which
teachers can utilize in heightening ELL awareness and accuracy of
English in the content areas. 

There will be opportunities during the webinar for questions and some
discussion.  Instructor Don Bouchard.


(1)  To participate in the web conference, you will need...
*	A computer with a broadband connection to the internet (Cable,
DSL, or WiFi); Dial-Up will not work!
*	Adobe Flash Player (Flash 7 or later) installed on your
computer; most computers already have the Flash Player installed -
however, if yours does not, or if your Flash Player is in need of
updating (version 6 or older), you can download the player for free from
Adobe by clicking on this link:
http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/?promoid=BUIGP; this is a safe and
quick download.
*	An open phone line; we recommend using a hands-free headset if
available.  Use of a speakerphone may create audio difficulties.

		* If you have not yet attended a Connect Pro meeting -
to do one time only:
		    Test your connection and download the needed meeting
program (a few minutes):  
	
http://stateofmaine.na4.acrobat.com/common/help/en/support/meeting_test.
htm 
		
     If interested, get a quick overview -
http://www.adobe.com/go/connectpro_overview 


(2)  Please follow these steps to connect to the meeting:

1.	Go online to  http://stateofmaine.na4.acrobat.com/bouchard1/

	2.	Enter your name in the box when prompted.

	3.	In order to listen and speak during the meeting, you
will need to be connected by telephone as well as the Internet.  To help
you connect by phone, a box will appear asking for your phone number so
the Connect conference room can call you back.

*	If you have a telephone with a direct-dial phone number, please
accept this option, enter your phone number, and we will call you right
back.
			
*	If you have a telephone with no direct-line phone number (if
your phone is only reached by a switchboard), please click on CANCEL
when the call-back box appears, then dial-in to the meeting using this
access combination:

				Dial-In:       1-866-910-4857
				Participant Passcode:      973418
	
		      Please close other programs running on your
computer during the meeting to enhance performance.  Instruction for use
of Chat and audio questions will be given prior to the start of the
session.
		

For more information or questions, please feel free to contact:
Gail Benvenuta-Funtsch  *  susan.gail.funtsch at maine.gov  *  (207)
624-6716


If you have problems accessing the meeting site or audio on the day of
the scheduled session, contact Bob McIntire at (207) 624-6778.


*  If you want to use only the audio portion and not the webinar
portion, Powerpoint material will be posted after April 1 to
http://www.maine.gov/education/nclb/titleiii.htm.  You will also be able
to listen to the recorded session online after April 3; the website
address will be posted to this same location.




Gail Benvenuta-Funtsch
Maine Department of Education
ESL/Bilingual Program Assistant
23 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
207.624.6716
susan.gail.funtsch at maine.gov


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From Susan.Gail.Funtsch at maine.gov  Thu Mar 26 10:48:29 2009
From: Susan.Gail.Funtsch at maine.gov (Funtsch, Susan Gail)
Date: Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:48:29 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] ESL/Bilingual Program Statewide Teleconference
	March 24 2009 minutes
Message-ID: <32E5C6B0B949584D9B6168C5F727916B057DAFDF@SOM-TEAQASMAIL1.som.w2k.state.me.us>

MINUTES - ESL Statewide Teleconference Call
Wednesday, March 18, 2009, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

AGENDA
	
*	ACCESS for ELLs? score reports
*	FLAME conference attendance
*	March 24  Strategies for Secondary Mathematics:  Working with ELLs; in Freeport 
*	March 26-28, 2009  TESOL Convention in Denver, Colorado 
*	April 2 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  Academic language and academic literacy [Don Bouchard]
*	May 2, Saturday,  NNETESOL, 8:30 am to 2pm at Portland USM: Steps to Academic Success for ELLs
*	May 6 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  Strategies for struggling ELLs [Don Bouchard]
*	Foreign adoption - MAPS
*	Project Opportunity courses 


ACCESS for ELLs? score reports
*  Materials will be shipped April 15-20; you will have scores as planned about April 20.
There was a glitch, in that at least one district had a delay in returning the tests to Metritech, though they think they can stay on schedule.  The tests are secure tests; Metritech will not do the computer scoring until all tests are in, for the full report.


FLAME conference (March 12-13)
Common feedback from some of the call participants who attended:  "light and fun."  There was more of a focus on teaching language and meshing domains, and not so much about ESL.  But even if there is not a specific ESL component, the content of this conference typically serves language acquisition skills.  

Comment regarding "Math is Not a Universal Language" workshop:  We use so much English - but not all math symbols are the same.  Using a "TPR/Total Physical Response" approach can offer benefit (activity with blocks on the floor).


March 24 workshop: "Strategies for Secondary Mathematics: Working with ELLs
		
		When:  March 24, 2009 8:30am to 3:00pm
		Where:  Hilton Garden Inn, Freeport Downtown
		For more information and to register online visit:  www.mainesupportnetwork.org 

*  There 51 attendees, including ESL teachers, adult ed, text book writers, university professor, special education teachers, math teachers and regular classroom teachers.  
*  The workshop was beyond excellent and from the attendees feedback and requests, the presenter will be brought back next year.  

*	Prepare now:  the 2010 TESOL Convention will be held in Boston March 24-26, 2010, at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.  This is an exciting opportunity.  The location makes the convention more affordable for us in Maine, and we hope ESL staff will take advantage of it. For convention information visit:  http://www.tesol.org
	
	
April 2 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  "Academic language and academic literacy"  
*  Free Webinar  using Adobe Connect (similar to WebEx and other platforms)
Theis first online training will be held Thursday April 2 from 4 to 5:30pm with Don Bouchard.  Topic: "Academic Language and Academic Literacy."  Webinar description:

We will examine the characteristics and challenges of content-based English that are necessary for student academic achievement.  Academic Language will focus on the general characteristics of vocabulary, grammar, and discourse as they impact achievement; academic literacy will focus on the unique ways in which English print language serves as the conduit for specific content information. 
We will provide a number of techniques and strategies associated with academic language and academic literacy which teachers can utilize in heightening ELL awareness and accuracy of English in the content areas.

We invite anyone who works with ELLs - including regular classroom teachers - to participate.  
Information will be disseminated to prepare you - through the ESLCommunication listserv.  You will need to take several minutes prior to the start of the webinar to download a free Adobe add-on program onto your computer.  This is an easy process, and written instructions will be provided.  (Adobe is the software company that provides the free Adobe Reader program that we all use for viewing pdf files.)  You will be able to contact Gail Benvenuta, who will be the background host for the session, with set-up questions if you need; her contact information is included in the written instructions.

The technology allows participants to ask questions and make comments, do small group work, and interact with others, all online.  This first effort will require a computer and a phone (audio) connection.  [In the future we may attempt computer-only VOiP/voice-over internet protocol sessions, which do require your computer to have an internal microphone.]

We are researching if and how we can offer CEUs for the webinar.  

We intend to have a series of webinars and mini-conferences over time so that those who cannot travel can still be involved in professional development and peer interaction.  Don Bouchard will continue to be engaged, and we anticipate interaction with other trainers as well.  We have already received suggestions for professional development topics.

The webinar will also be recorded and archived, so people will be able to listen to it on their computer at any time.

NOTE:  A formal announcement was sent out on the ESLCommunication listserv on Tuesday 3/24.  If you did not receive this, you can contact Gail Benvenuta by email, susan.gail.funtsch at maine.gov.


May 2, Saturday,  NNETESOL, 8:30 am to 2pm at USM in Portland
"Steps to Academic Success for English Language Learners (ELLs)"

		When:  Saturday, May 2, 2009, 8:30am-2:00pm 
		Where: Wishcamper Center, University of Southern Maine campus in Portland.
		- Cost:  $35
		- 6 Professional Development Hours are Available 
This Saturday event offers a good opportunity to connect with other ESL teachers.

*  FMI and to register:  http://www.nnetesol.org/

Structure:
*  Morning workshops:
 -  Strategies for Strengthening Academic Reading and Writing, 
 -  Generation 1.5: What are the Issues? 
 -  Helping ELLs in the Mainstream Classroom 
 -  Student Voices - Success in Higher Education
 -  Presenters/workshop leaders include Don Bouchard, Bart Weyand, Margot Downs and 
 Linda Ward.
*  A working lunch ("World Caf?"):
 -  Questions and topic areas are in development for grouped lunch tables.  Participants will 
    brainstorm and scribe; notes from these sessions will go up onto the NNETESOL website 
    soon after the event.
*  Student panel discussion:
   - 5-6 ELL students who have been successful with their struggles
*  Debrief

We note that the cost of this event is low, and is a good opportunity to pick up 6 professional development hours even if you must pay out-of-pocket.  NNETESOL is seeking to provide such events at a low cost throughout the northern New England area.


May 6 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  "Strategies for struggling ELLs"
Also presented by Don Bouchard, this will be the final webinar for this school year.  Information will be disseminated at the end of April. 
Over the summer we will be working on new topics for webinars beginning in the Fall of 2009.  


Foreign adoption - MAPS 
MAPS is an international adoption and humanitarian aid agency based in Portland.  
>From Rebecca Perez of Rumford at rperez at msad43.org:
Students adopted from other countries by English-speaking parents arrive here with issues that present challenges for schools that know little about how to work with these students.  How can they be qualified for services beyond only ESL?  What other resources are available?

A social worker from MAPS will be offering professional development for Rumford's teachers regarding adoption-related issues (emotional, attachment, refugee trauma, more) and strategies to address them.  "The strategies we know don't always work with these students.  There is a different set of circumstances."  

MAPS can be contacted in Portland at 775-4101; http://www.mapsadopt.org.  They are interested to do this work with other schools.


Project Opportunity Courses
FMI:  http://www2.umaine.edu/projectopportunity/
4 courses are being offered, May through the summer:
*  Multiculturalism and Diversity - May 11-29, 2009, UMaine Orono.  This "May term" morning course is being piloted to attract preservice teachers.
*  Methods: The Teaching of English as a Second Language - June 22-26, UMaine Orono
*  Curriculum and Development in ESL/EFL Contexts - July 6-10, UMaine Orono
*  Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition - July 13-17, USM, Portland
All school Principals will get the flyer for these courses.  Please also disseminate the information around your schools about these courses.


Question (carryover from last month's teleconference): 
Administering ACCESS for ELLS? to Foreign Exchange Students
>From February:  
If you have been testing foreign exchange students with the ACCESS for ELLs?, that's good; if you have not been testing thus far, you may want to make note that next year you will have to.
Rationale:  Possibly, because of visa issues; not ask status in this country.  No exclusions can be made based on visa status; foreign exchange students should not be singled out. The decision e from the federal level is that foreign exchange students must participate in all assessments..  

Nancy Mullins:  
		This issue (testing Foreign Exchange students in all tests) will be clarified before the beginning of the next school year at the State level.
		Does this mean that FE students will receive ESL services, too?  Likely - because we are not allowed to ask why the person is here/in this country.  You administer the Home Language Survey first - for every new enrollee - because there can't be "profiling"; then administer ACCESS for ELLs?.
		The Federal government is arguing that all K-12 state assessments are to be given - e.g., MEAs, SATs.  The trigger is that the student may be an ELL.  Regardless of where the student is from, we are supposed to treat all students equally.  

Comment:  This will double my numbers!
NM:  	Districts with no ELLs but who do have FE students will have to have trained personnel 
		to administer ACCESS for ELLs?, and if the student is not Composite Level 6, he/she must receive services.  This must be addressed.
Question:  Can a student decline/refuse services?
NM:  	The student can, if they are over 18 years old.  The parent can, but that still doesn't 
		release the district from responsibilities.  Without ESL services, the student can't access "meaningful education."  The parent can refuse, but the school can't allow an ELL to languish in the classroom without services. A parent cannot deny a child his/her constitutional right to an education.
Comment:  If the FE student is 18, they can say no - but the family can't.  There's a mix around 
		the requirements of countries' languages - the US requires English, other countries don't.  Sometimes a FE student coming in here is only at Level 2 or 3.
Comment:  This will also change our Lau Plans.
NM:  	The Federal government says it's "supposed to have been this way."  States have not 
known that.  Many states are now asking for clarification.
Comment:  The definition/emphasis may be changing.  All assessments under Title I are to be 
administered.	A problem: SATs are required for graduation (by my district) - this is a 
		problem for my high school student!
		Suggestion:  Talk with your school administration, and be very specific.
NM:	There is a New York Times front-page articles about ELLs and immigrants, given changes in education and more; it highlighted a school in Virginia with Sheltered English classes, talked about the tension in the school and community and discouraged students.  I will pass this article along through the ESLEducators listserv.

*


* Please be sure to email any questions or comments about ACCESS for ELLs? to Nancy Mullins (nancy.mullins at maine.gov).  Feedback or comments about any pertinent ESL/Bilingual issues are also welcomed!


* The next ESL conference call will be on Thursday, April 16, 2009 
from 4pm to 5pm.




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From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Fri Mar 27 11:14:02 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Fri, 27 Mar 2009 11:14:02 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] FW: Admin Letter 42 - Certification of April
	1st Students - Due Date: April 15, 200
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C095CA@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>

TO: Superintendents of Schools
FROM: Susan A. Gendron, Commissioner
DATE: March 27, 2009
SUBJECT: Certification of April 1st Students - Due Date: April 15, 2009

The EPS April report located in the Infinite Campus State Education
System (ICSES), formerly known as MEDMS, must be reviewed and certified
for each school administrative unit by April 15, 2009.  Please review
the EPS April report and certify by faxing the certification form to
624-6791.  Note: this certification form is now required and is no
longer optional.

All corrections to student information must be entered into the Infinite
Campus State Education System by the enrolling school. These changes
will be reflected in the EPS April report after the next update to the
EPS April report occurs.

In order for the school administrative unit to receive an accurate
subsidy count, some of the key fields to be completed in the Infinite
Campus State Education Systems are:

*	Start Date 
*	End Date (if applicable) 
*	End Status (if applicable) 
*	Grade 
*	Service Type (formerly Enrollment Type) 
*	English Proficiency 

	*	If you select LEP (Limited English Proficient), the
appropriate LEP programs must also be selected. Please see your LEP
coordinator or for LEP related questions, contact
Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (624-6778) 

*	Home Language 
*	Resident Town Code 
*	Resident SAU 
*	Economic Indicator (formerly School Lunch Eligibility) 
*	Fiscal Responsibility 
*	Ward of State or State Agency Client flags 
*	Home Schooled flag & SAU Percentage (if checked) 
*	Special Education Fields (if applicable) 

	*	Special Ed Status 
	*	Start Date 
	*	Special Ed Setting 
	*	Exceptionality 
	*	Exit Date (if applicable) 
	*	Exit Reason (if applicable) 

For questions regarding student residency and enrollment, please email
richard.bergeron at maine.gov 
Technical assistance is available from the MEDMS Help Desk via email
medms.helpdesk at maine.gov or by telephone at 624-6896.


EPS April Report Instructions


The EPS April report (downloadable Excel file) on student information is
available in the Infinite Campus State Education System.  From now until
12 Midnight April 15, 2009, this report will be updated on a four hour
schedule (12 Midnight, 4 AM, 8 AM, 12 Noon, 4 PM, 8 PM) so if the
information or changes in information are not included, please be
patient and download the data again at a later time or even the next
day.

Personnel with the role of "SAU Admin" may access this report by logging
on to the Infinite Campus State Education System Log In page and
implementing the steps below:

Infinite Campus State Education System Log In website:
https://maine.infinitecampus.org/campus/mese.jsp 

*	Click on "Infinite Campus State Education System Log In", type
in your Username and Password and click "Sign In" 
*	Under "Index", select "Maine State Reporting", then click on
"EPS April" 
*	Next to "Year", select "08-09" for the April 1, 2009 EPS Report 
*	Click on "Generate Report" 

At this point a dialog box will appear on your screen with the question
"Do you want to open or save this file?"  We recommend that you "save"
this file to an appropriate place on your computer or network drive. In
order to keep this file up-to-date, you need to follow the steps above
each time student data are updated in the Infinite Campus State
Education System.
                        
Included in this report is the following information: 

*	State Student ID 
*	First Name 
*	Last Name 
*	Equivalent Instruction - indicates that the student is a "Home
School Education" student and the percentage of time that student is
attending academic courses - this count is used to determine State
subsidy for these students 
*	Counts4YO - indicates that the student will be counted as a
four-year-old student (must be four years old by October 15th) 
*	CountsEK - indicates that the student will be counted as a
student in early kindergarten (must be five years old by October 15th) 
*	Grade 
*	Birth Date 
*	Age on October 15th 
*	Attending SAU 
*	Attending School 
*	Resident SAU 
*	Resident Town 
*	Fiscal Responsibility 

Also indicated in this report is whether the student is "counted" for
attending or subsidy in the following categories: 

*	CountsAttending - indicates that the student will be counted for
attendance for the school administrative unit. 
*	CountsSubsidy - indicates that the student will be counted for
subsidy purposes for the school administrative unit. 

Note: the following will only show a count if there is a count in the
"CountsSubsidy" column:

*	CountsFRL - indicates that the student will be counted for free
and reduced lunch - elementary counts will be used to determine the
percentage of disadvantaged students in a school administrative unit. 
*	CountsSPED - indicates that the student will be counted as a
special education student. 
*	CountsLEP - indicates that the student will be counted as a LEP
(Limited English Proficient) student.  Note: requires completed LEP
enrollment data in order to receive a count; the appropriate LEP program
must also be checked. See your LEP Coordinator for more information. 
*	CountsK2 - indicates that the student will be counted for the
kindergarten through grade 2 targeted funds (includes four-year-olds
through grade two). 
*	CountsK5 - indicates that the student will be counted for grades
kindergarten through grade 5 (includes four-year-olds through grade
five). 
*	Counts68 - indicates that the student will be counted for grades
six through grade eight. 
*	CountsK8 - indicates that the student will be counted for
kindergarten through grade eight (includes four-year-olds through grade
eight). 
*	CountsK12 - indicates that the student will be counted for
kindergarten through grade twelve (includes four-year-olds through grade
twelve). 
*	Counts912 - indicates that the student will be counted for grade
nine through grade twelve. 

Finally, there is a "Note" column to the far right of the spreadsheet.
These notes may indicate that there is a problem or error in the
student's enrollment data or indicate a reason why the student is not
counted.  These notes are as follows:

*	Paid by Resident SAU or EUT Invalid for Resident Student:
Attending SAU and Resident SAU are equal and Fiscal Responsibility
indicates Paid by Other SAU or EUT - (Code O).  This is probably an
error in the Fiscal Responsibility OR an error in the Resident SAU and
Resident Town for this student.  If a resident student is attending a
school in the resident SAU then the fiscal responsibility should be
Resident of School Unit. 

*	Special Education Services Only:  Student is flagged as "Home
School Education" and is receiving only special education services at
the public school.  This is a message to help explain the count on this
student. 

*	Student Must Be At Least 4 Years Old:  Student is enrolled and
student's birth date indicates that the student is not at least 4 years
old as of October 15 of the school year.  This is a message to help
explain why this student is not counted - student does not meet the
minimum age requirement of 20-A MRSA Section 5201. 

*	Student Older Than 21:  Student is enrolled and student's birth
date indicates that the student is more than 21 years old as of October
15 of the school year.  This is a message to help explain why this
student is not counted - student does not meet the maximum age
requirement of 20-A MRSA Section 5201. 

*	Resident of School Unit is not valid if Resident SAU and
Attending SAU are not =:  Resident SAU and Attending SAU are not equal,
but Fiscal Responsibility indicates that the student is a resident of
the school unit - (Code R).  This is probably an error in the Fiscal
Responsibility OR an error in the Resident SAU and Resident Town for
this student.  If a non-resident student is attending a school in
another SAU, then the fiscal responsibility should not be Resident of
School Unit. 

*	Student Attending A Private Special Purpose Program: Student
will count for subsidy for resident SAU, but will not count for
attending at attending school or SAU that has the primary/main
enrollment because the student is attending a private special purpose
program.
*	CTE Schools Cannot Have Main/Primary Enrollments: Students must
have an attending/sending school.
*	Student being educated by Maine Indian Education: Subsidy will
go to Maine Indian Education, regardless of resident SAU.
*	Resident Town Is Null: Student will not count for subsidy or
attending counts because there is a null value in the resident town.
*	Resident Town Is Not In the Resident SAU: Student will not count
for subsidy or attending counts because the student's enrollment has
either an invalid Resident SAU or an Invalid Resident Town. 

NOTE: Students who have a null Race / Ethnicity or a null Resident
District ID / Resident SAU are not counted for EPS purposes. The
student's record must reflect accurate information before proper subsidy
can be awarded.


*** NEW REPORTS ***


Additional Reports to Assist you in Certifying the EPS April Report


We have created four additional reports to assist you in analyzing your
EPS data. These reports are all available in Infinite Campus in the ME
State Reporting section under a folder called "EPS October Reports".
These reports are:

*	Invalid Enrollments Report 
*	April Count Summaries by School 
*	April Counts Attending by Fiscal Responsibility 
*	April Counts Subsidy by Fiscal Responsibility 


Invalid Enrollments Report


This report displays a list of students that are NOT being counted for
attending or subsidy totals. This is usually due to the fact that the
student's enrollment record does not have all of the required State
Reporting fields completed. The required State Reporting fields are:

*	English Proficiency 
*	Home Language 
*	Resident Town Code 
*	Resident SAU 
*	Economic Indicator 
*	Fiscal Responsibility 

Once these fields are completed, the student will be removed from the
Invalid Enrollments report.


April Count Summaries by School


This report displays a sum of the counts from the EPS April Report
grouped by school. This should assist you in troubleshooting where any
potential discrepancies exist.


April Counts Attending by Fiscal Responsibility


This report displays "Attending Counts" by grade grouped by Fiscal
Responsibility and Resident Town. This should assist you in
troubleshooting where any potential discrepancies exist.


April Counts Subsidy by Fiscal Responsibility


This report displays "Subsidy Counts" by grade grouped by Fiscal
Responsibility and Resident Town. This should assist you in
troubleshooting where any potential discrepancies exist.

These four additional reports are based on EPS April data and if you
make a modification to a student's enrollment record, the change will
not appear immediately. The data in these reports are on the same
refresh schedule as the EPS April report. These reports should assist
you in getting your EPS April report certified in a timely manner.

Letter to Private School Administrators from Commissioner Gendron dated
March 20, 2009

<http://www.maine.gov/education/forms/misteam/enrollment/april/aprpr09lt
r.htm>
http://www.maine.gov/education/forms/misteam/enrollment/april/aprpr09ltr
.htm 

April 1st Enrollment Certification for Public Schools with Publicly
Funded Students

<http://maine.gov/education/forms/misteam/enrollment/april/aprcertfrm09.
pdf>
http://maine.gov/education/forms/misteam/enrollment/april/aprcertfrm09.p
df 

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From Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov  Mon Mar 30 09:05:43 2009
From: Nancy.Mullins at maine.gov (Mullins, Nancy)
Date: Mon, 30 Mar 2009 09:05:43 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] May 12-14,
	2009 Transitioning to a Standards Based System
Message-ID: <6A73A5DE6596754DB4575B71972AA46004C095E7@SOM-TEAQASMAIL2.som.w2k.state.me.us>


SAVE THE DATE!!

"Transitioning to a Standards Based System 
of Education in Maine"

May 12-14, 2009
Informational Conference about the 
Maine Department of Education's work with the 
Re-Inventing Schools Coalition (RISC) and their approach to 
standards based, learner centered education
$25 per person registration fee includes 
Delivering on the Promise: The Education Revolution

This three-day conference will provide participants with an opportunity
to:
*	Develop an understanding of the RISC Model of a standards based
system of education
*	Learn how to apply tenets of the RISC Model in school districts 
			(see www.reinventingschools.org for more
information) 
*	Learn about MDOE's plans for facilitating and supporting this
work

May 15, 2009
Information about 1st Cohort Pilot Site Application
$25 per person registration fee

This one-day workshop will provide participants with an opportunity to:
*	Understand 1st Cohort Pilot Site Expectations & Support
*	Understand the application materials and process

Application materials will be available on-line for review prior to May
15.

Morgan Hill Event Center
82 Morgan Hill Lane
Hermon, Maine 04401


We strongly recommend that teams representing a wide range of
stakeholders attend this conference together.  Recommended roles
include: student(s), teacher(s), parent, School Board member, curriculum
leader, and superintendant.  Teams of 6-7 participants recommended.

**On-line conference registration and more detailed information to
follow**



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From Susan.Gail.Funtsch at maine.gov  Mon Mar 30 09:37:44 2009
From: Susan.Gail.Funtsch at maine.gov (Funtsch, Susan Gail)
Date: Mon, 30 Mar 2009 09:37:44 -0400
Subject: [esl.communication] Corrected ESL/Bilingual Program 3/18/09
	Teleconference Minutes
Message-ID: <32E5C6B0B949584D9B6168C5F727916B057DAFEC@SOM-TEAQASMAIL1.som.w2k.state.me.us>

Regarding MAPS information in the March 18 ESL/Bilingual Program 3/18 Teleconference:

Apologies to the Rebeccas:  
The MAPS adoption presentation was actually at China Primary School and was organized by Rebecca Stauffer (Carey) - rebeccacarey at hotmail.com.
We incorrectly cited Rebecca Perez of Rumford (rperez at msad43.org) - please note this change especially if you intend future contact regarding MAPS.

The amended minutes are below.
Thank you -
Gail


Gail Benvenuta-Funtsch
Maine Department of Education
ESL/Bilingual Program Assistant
23 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
207.624.6716
susan.gail.funtsch at maine.gov


MINUTES - ESL Statewide Teleconference Call
Wednesday, March 18, 2009, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

AGENDA
	
*	ACCESS for ELLs? score reports
*	FLAME conference attendance
*	March 24  Strategies for Secondary Mathematics:  Working with ELLs; in Freeport 
*	March 26-28, 2009  TESOL Convention in Denver, Colorado 
*	April 2 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  Academic language and academic literacy [Don Bouchard]
*	May 2, Saturday,  NNETESOL, 8:30 am to 2pm at Portland USM: Steps to Academic Success for ELLs
*	May 6 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  Strategies for struggling ELLs [Don Bouchard]
*	Foreign adoption - MAPS
*	Project Opportunity courses 


ACCESS for ELLs? score reports
*  Materials will be shipped April 15-20; you will have scores as planned about April 20.
There was a glitch, in that at least one district had a delay in returning the tests to Metritech, though they think they can stay on schedule.  The tests are secure tests; Metritech will not do the computer scoring until all tests are in, for the full report.


FLAME conference (March 12-13)
Common feedback from some of the call participants who attended:  "light and fun."  There was more of a focus on teaching language and meshing domains, and not so much about ESL.  But even if there is not a specific ESL component, the content of this conference typically serves language acquisition skills.  

Comment regarding "Math is Not a Universal Language" workshop:  We use so much English - but not all math symbols are the same.  Using a "TPR/Total Physical Response" approach can offer benefit (activity with blocks on the floor).

March 24 workshop: "Strategies for Secondary Mathematics: Working with ELLs
		
		When:  March 24, 2009 8:30am to 3:00pm
		Where:  Hilton Garden Inn, Freeport Downtown
		For more information and to register online visit:  www.mainesupportnetwork.org 

*  There 51 attendees, including ESL teachers, adult ed, text book writers, university professor, special education teachers, math teachers and regular classroom teachers.  
*  The workshop was beyond excellent and from the attendees feedback and requests, the presenter will be brought back next year.  

*	Prepare now:  the 2010 TESOL Convention will be held in Boston March 24-26, 2010, at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.  This is an exciting opportunity.  The location makes the convention more affordable for us in Maine, and we hope ESL staff will take advantage of it. For convention information visit:  http://www.tesol.org
	

April 2 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  "Academic language and academic literacy"  
*  Free Webinar  using Adobe Connect (similar to WebEx and other platforms)
Theis first online training will be held Thursday April 2 from 4 to 5:30pm with Don Bouchard.  Topic: "Academic Language and Academic Literacy."  Webinar description:

We will examine the characteristics and challenges of content-based English that are necessary for student academic achievement.  Academic Language will focus on the general characteristics of vocabulary, grammar, and discourse as they impact achievement; academic literacy will focus on the unique ways in which English print language serves as the conduit for specific content information. 
We will provide a number of techniques and strategies associated with academic language and academic literacy which teachers can utilize in heightening ELL awareness and accuracy of English in the content areas.

We invite anyone who works with ELLs - including regular classroom teachers - to participate.  
Information will be disseminated to prepare you - through the ESLCommunication listserv.  You will need to take several minutes prior to the start of the webinar to download a free Adobe add-on program onto your computer.  This is an easy process, and written instructions will be provided.  (Adobe is the software company that provides the free Adobe Reader program that we all use for viewing pdf files.)  You will be able to contact Gail Benvenuta, who will be the background host for the session, with set-up questions if you need; her contact information is included in the written instructions.

The technology allows participants to ask questions and make comments, do small group work, and interact with others, all online.  This first effort will require a computer and a phone (audio) connection.  [In the future we may attempt computer-only VOiP/voice-over internet protocol sessions, which do require your computer to have an internal microphone.]

We are researching if and how we can offer CEUs for the webinar.  

We intend to have a series of webinars and mini-conferences over time so that those who cannot travel can still be involved in professional development and peer interaction.  Don Bouchard will continue to be engaged, and we anticipate interaction with other trainers as well.  We have already received suggestions for professional development topics.

The webinar will also be recorded and archived, so people will be able to listen to it on their computer at any time.

NOTE:  A formal announcement was sent out on the ESLCommunication listserv on Tuesday 3/24.  If you did not receive this, you can contact Gail Benvenuta by email, susan.gail.funtsch at maine.gov.

May 2, Saturday,  NNETESOL, 8:30 am to 2pm at USM in Portland
"Steps to Academic Success for English Language Learners (ELLs)"

		When:  Saturday, May 2, 2009, 8:30am-2:00pm 
		Where: Wishcamper Center, University of Southern Maine campus in Portland.
		- Cost:  $35
		- 6 Professional Development Hours are Available 
This Saturday event offers a good opportunity to connect with other ESL teachers.

*  FMI and to register:  http://www.nnetesol.org/

Structure:
*  Morning workshops:
 -  Strategies for Strengthening Academic Reading and Writing, 
 -  Generation 1.5: What are the Issues? 
 -  Helping ELLs in the Mainstream Classroom 
 -  Student Voices - Success in Higher Education
 -  Presenters/workshop leaders include Don Bouchard, Bart Weyand, Margot Downs and 
 Linda Ward.
*  A working lunch ("World Caf?"):
 -  Questions and topic areas are in development for grouped lunch tables.  Participants will 
    brainstorm and scribe; notes from these sessions will go up onto the NNETESOL website 
    soon after the event.
*  Student panel discussion:
   - 5-6 ELL students who have been successful with their struggles
*  Debrief

We note that the cost of this event is low, and is a good opportunity to pick up 6 professional development hours even if you must pay out-of-pocket.  NNETESOL is seeking to provide such events at a low cost throughout the northern New England area.


May 6 Webinar  4 to 5:30pm:  "Strategies for struggling ELLs"
Also presented by Don Bouchard, this will be the final webinar for this school year.  Information will be disseminated at the end of April. 
Over the summer we will be working on new topics for webinars beginning in the Fall of 2009.  


Foreign adoption - MAPS 
MAPS is an international adoption and humanitarian aid agency based in Portland.  
Organized by Rebecca Stauffer (Carey) at China Primary School  - rebeccacarey at hotmail.com:
Students adopted from other countries by English-speaking parents arrive here with issues that present challenges for schools that know little about how to work with these students.  How can they be qualified for services beyond only ESL?  What other resources are available?

A social worker from MAPS will be offering professional development for Rumford's teachers regarding adoption-related issues (emotional, attachment, refugee trauma, more) and strategies to address them.  "The strategies we know don't always work with these students.  There is a different set of circumstances."  

MAPS can be contacted in Portland at 775-4101; http://www.mapsadopt.org.  They are interested to do this work with other schools.


Project Opportunity Courses
FMI:  http://www2.umaine.edu/projectopportunity/
4 courses are being offered, May through the summer:
*  Multiculturalism and Diversity - May 11-29, 2009, UMaine Orono.  This "May term" morning course is being piloted to attract preservice teachers.
*  Methods: The Teaching of English as a Second Language - June 22-26, UMaine Orono
*  Curriculum and Development in ESL/EFL Contexts - July 6-10, UMaine Orono
*  Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition - July 13-17, USM, Portland
All school Principals will get the flyer for these courses.  Please also disseminate the information around your schools about these courses.


Question (carryover from last month's teleconference): 
Administering ACCESS for ELLS? to Foreign Exchange Students
>From February:  
If you have been testing foreign exchange students with the ACCESS for ELLs?, that's good; if you have not been testing thus far, you may want to make note that next year you will have to.
Rationale:  Possibly, because of visa issues; not ask status in this country.  No exclusions can be made based on visa status; foreign exchange students should not be singled out. The decision e from the federal level is that foreign exchange students must participate in all assessments..  

Nancy Mullins:  
		This issue (testing Foreign Exchange students in all tests) will be clarified before the beginning of the next school year at the State level.
		Does this mean that FE students will receive ESL services, too?  Likely - because we are not allowed to ask why the person is here/in this country.  You administer the Home Language Survey first - for every new enrollee - because there can't be "profiling"; then administer ACCESS for ELLs?.
		The Federal government is arguing that all K-12 state assessments are to be given - e.g., MEAs, SATs.  The trigger is that the student may be an ELL.  Regardless of where the student is from, we are supposed to treat all students equally.  

Comment:  This will double my numbers!
NM:  	Districts with no ELLs but who do have FE students will have to have trained personnel 
		to administer ACCESS for ELLs?, and if the student is not Composite Level 6, he/she must receive services.  This must be addressed.
Question:  Can a student decline/refuse services?
NM:  	The student can, if they are over 18 years old.  The parent can, but that still doesn't 
		release the district from responsibilities.  Without ESL services, the student can't access "meaningful education."  The parent can refuse, but the school can't allow an ELL to languish in the classroom without services. A parent cannot deny a child his/her constitutional right to an education.
Comment:  If the FE student is 18, they can say no - but the family can't.  There's a mix around 
		the requirements of countries' languages - the US requires English, other countries don't.  Sometimes a FE student coming in here is only at Level 2 or 3.
Comment:  This will also change our Lau Plans.
NM:  	The Federal government says it's "supposed to have been this way."  States have not 
known that.  Many states are now asking for clarification.
Comment:  The definition/emphasis may be changing.  All assessments under Title I are to be 
administered.	A problem: SATs are required for graduation (by my district) - this is a 
		problem for my high school student!
		Suggestion:  Talk with your school administration, and be very specific.
NM:	There is a New York Times front-page articles about ELLs and immigrants, given changes in education and more; it highlighted a school in Virginia with Sheltered English classes, talked about the tension in the school and community and discouraged students.  I will pass this article along through the ESLEducators listserv.

*


* Please be sure to email any questions or comments about ACCESS for ELLs? to Nancy Mullins (nancy.mullins at maine.gov).  Feedback or comments about any pertinent ESL/Bilingual issues are also welcomed!


* The next ESL conference call will be on Thursday, April 16, 2009 
from 4pm to 5pm.

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