The English for Speakers of Other Languages Program helps students to develop a high level of English for academic work in the United States. It prepares students broadly, including language training, content education, study skills, and cross-cultural orientation. Typically, new students take three full-credit ESOL courses for one year, with second-year mainstreaming into non-ESOL courses. Ninth graders, however, take the ESOL Structure and Use class, and join the integrated Humans in the Natural World.
Among the ESOL offerings are two sheltered classes for advanced English learners, one in literature and writing and one in American history and culture. The ESOL program teaches the ability to write and speak clearly, work independently, think critically, act cooperatively, and join discussions effectively.
Students must demonstrate proficiency at each level of the program before moving to the next level. Those who do not may have the option of summer study to prepare for the next level. All seniors must be mainstreamed.