Ms. Ana Marti, Supervisor
973-669-5400 Ext. 20572
West Orange is a residential community nestled in the heart of Essex County. A suburb of Newark, its population is both culturally and economically diverse. West Orange High School’s ESL population currently is 6% of the total school enrollment. Students speak thirteen different languages, the most prominent of which is Spanish. The high school was awarded as a Model Program Resource Center for its comprehensive program design, its course- based thematic curriculum, effective instructional practices, individual student attention and support and dedicated resources.
This high intensity alternative to bilingual education varies depending on the language proficiency level and grade of the students. All students receive two ESL classes one focusing on content, the other on literature. Beginners also receive assistance with the content in mainstream classes through a tutorial which integrates the use of technology. The high school also affords the students educational equity in meeting graduation requirements as well as four-year college entrance requirements by offering LEP sections of world history, US History 1, US History 2, biology, chemistry, physics and remedial math.
Two guidance counselors, one of whom is Spanish-speaking, are assigned to the ESL students. In addition, two bilingual instructional assistants are available to support instruction, assist with interdisciplinary communication and keep a pulse on at-risk students. Special programs include the ESL Club, the ESL Summer Program and an orientation program for new entrants.
Click here for sample student course selections.
Click here for a list of ESL Web Resources.