Supports Available for Multilingual Language Learners
English as a Second Language (ESL) and English Literacy Development (ELD) Programs
- Specialized instruction tailored to students’ language proficiency levels.
- Focus on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English.
- Integration of language learning with academic content.
Waterloo Catholic District School Board offers two distinct programs to support multilingual language learners, depending on their educational background and English language proficiency:
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Who it’s for: Students who have had consistent schooling in their first language and are learning English as an additional language.
Focus: Developing English language skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing) while supporting academic achievement across subjects.
Integration: ESL students are integrated into classrooms and receive additional language support as needed.
Goal: Help students become proficient in English.
English Literacy Development (ELD)
Who it’s for: Students with limited or interrupted formal education
Where it’s offered: In elementary classroom teachers and MLSTs work directly with students requiring ELD programming. In secondary, ELD programming is offered at Resurrection C.S.S. and St. Mary’s High School.
Focus: Building foundational literacy skills in English, along with academic and social development.
Support: ELD students may receive more intensive and specialized instruction to bridge gaps in literacy and learning.
Goal: Support students in acquiring both basic literacy and academic English to succeed in school and beyond.
