Multilingual Learner Support

Every language is an asset at Wasatch

Wasatch Elementary welcomes students and families from many languages, cultures, and backgrounds. We value the knowledge, experiences, and strengths multilingual students bring to our classrooms.

Our English Language Development program helps students build the language they need to communicate confidently, participate fully in class, and succeed with grade-level learning.

What is English Language Development?

English Language Development, often called ELD, provides focused instruction in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Students learn how English works and practice using academic language in meaningful ways. Instruction is connected to the ideas, vocabulary, and communication skills students need throughout the school day.

What students experience

Multilingual learners receive opportunities to:

• build confidence speaking with classmates and adults
• develop academic vocabulary
• explain their thinking in complete sentences
• strengthen reading comprehension and writing
• participate in partner conversations and group discussions
• ask questions, share ideas, and advocate for themselves
• continue growing as successful, independent learners

Support throughout the school day

Language development does not happen only during a separate ELD lesson. Classroom teachers and specialists work together to help students access grade-level learning in reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, and the arts.

Teachers may use:

• visual models and demonstrations
• structured partner talk
• sentence frames and discussion supports
• explicit vocabulary instruction
• small-group teaching
• examples and models of strong work
• opportunities to rehearse ideas before speaking or writing
• regular checks for understanding

These supports help students engage in challenging learning while continuing to develop English.

Academic conversation and writing

At Wasatch, students regularly talk and write about their thinking. Multilingual learners are supported as they explain ideas, listen to different perspectives, use evidence, and contribute to classroom conversations.

Every student deserves to have a strong voice in the classroom.

Working in partnership with families

Families are important partners in their child’s learning. We encourage families to continue speaking, reading, telling stories, and sharing ideas in the language used at home. Developing a strong home language supports learning, relationships, identity, and the continued development of English.

Interpretation and translation support are available for school communication, conferences, and meetings. Please contact the school office when language assistance would be helpful.

How progress is supported

Teachers review students’ classroom work, language development, and assessment information throughout the year. This helps the school identify strengths, plan instruction, and provide additional support when needed.

Families receive information about their child’s progress and are encouraged to ask questions at any time.