All school districts in Pennsylvania are required to identify, assess, and provide instruction for English Language Learners (ELLs).  ESL programs are provided to students whose dominant language is not English.  Once a district identifies a potential ESL student, that student is assessed using the WIDA-ACCESS Placement Test (W-APT ) to determine proficiency levels.  If a student is determined to need ESL services, a program is created to meet their needs.   ESL students are evaluated annually with the WIDA ACCESS test which helps to drive instruction.  The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has established exit criteria that students must meet before they can be released from the ESL program.

The Northwest Tri-County Intermediate Unit welcomes district participation in the ESL consortium which presently serves nine (9) school districts.  Intermediate Unit ESL teachers provide direct and teacher supported instruction to students residing in consortia member districts.  Intermediate Unit teachers are ESL certified and WIDA certified to administer all PDE required assessment tools.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting Dr. Carol Bagley, Supervisor, at carol_bagley@iu5.org or (814) 734-8484.