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Welcome to the new GC website!

The new district and school websites, powered by ParentSquare’s Smart Sites, feature improved navigation, a streamlined layout consistent across all sites, and a user-friendly design to better serve our entire community. They also seamlessly integrate with ParentSquare, the district’s communication platform.

Although the new website has a redesigned look, most of the website components and menus are the same!

2 days ago

Gates Chili Central School District

Together we teach and inspire excellence for all learners

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  2. Instruction
  3. English as a New Language

English as a New Language

English as a New Language (ENL)

English as a New Language (ENL) is a program that provides specialized support for English Language Learners (ELLs) in grades K-12. This program, required by New York State, helps students develop their English language skills while supporting their success in the classroom. At Gates Chili, this program is committed to providing a welcoming, supportive learning environment where all students can develop the English skills they need to thrive academically and socially.

Students qualify for ENL services based on an English proficiency assessment. Once enrolled, they receive instruction tailored to their needs in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. ENL instruction is provided by certified ESOL teachers, who work closely with general education teachers to integrate language development with academic learning.

There are five levels of English proficiency:

  • Entering
  • Emerging
  • Transitioning
  • Expanding
  • Commanding

ENL instruction

Depending on their proficiency level, students may receive support within their general education classrooms or attend small-group instruction with an ESOL teacher. In addition to language skills, students learn about U.S. culture while maintaining respect for their home language and cultural background.

Elementary (grades K-5)

English Language Learners attend all of our elementary schools. They are in a regular classroom with students of the same age.

Middle school (grades 6-8)

Students attend ENL classes as part of their regular school program. They receive a grade for ENL class.

High school (grades 9-12)

Students at the Entering and Emerging levels attend ENL classes as part of their regular school program. They receive a grade and credit toward graduation for these classes. All students receive ENL teacher support in at least one content class. Most students are also assigned to an ENL Study Hall where they may receive support with other subjects.

During their high school years, students may also be eligible to earn the New York State Seal of Biliteracy, a diploma designation that demonstrates fluency in English and one or more languages.

Supporting your ELL

Learning English is a journey that requires time, effort, and collaboration between students, families, and teachers. By working together, we can help English Language Learners succeed both in and out of the classroom. Families play a crucial role in this process by:

  • Reading with their student at home
  • Attending parent/guardian conferences to connect with teachers*
  • Participating in open house and other school events*
  • Creating a quiet space for homework and ensuring assignments are completed
  • Encouraging participation in after-school activities
  • Reaching out to teachers through ParentSquare with questions or concerns

*Families may bring their own interpreter to school events or request one by calling the school in advance.

By staying involved and engaged, families help support their student’s language development and academic success.