English Learners

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World-Class Services for English Learners

Nashville is a community rich with diversity, and we are lucky to have students from more than 130 countries enrolled in our schools. The district is currently home to more than 19,500 active English learners.

Integrating into a new country can be difficult for students and families and, coupled with language barriers, the transition can be emotionally draining and difficult.

That's why the Office of English Learners (EL), a leading program in the United States, is committed to promoting cross-cultural education, facilitating emotional growth and protecting the cultural identity of our students.

Serving our Students

Our schools are committed to supporting all English learners throughout their journey to English fluency, regardless of their starting level of English comprehension. Our EL teachers, over 750 in total, work with students to provide English learner services every day during school hours.

A Typical Day in Class Could Look Like

four students in class, one in astronaut helmet 
  • Small group instruction with English learner services

  • Strategic language instruction in reading, writing, listening, and speaking teacher for language development

Services We Provide

  • English language assessment that ensures students receive personalized language learning assistance

  • One-on-one enrollment sessions

  • Individual learning plans personalized to the language needs of each student

  • Interpreters throughout the district to connect families with their schools

  • Advocate for students and families 

  • Supplemental language and literacy software for English learners

  • Summer school and after school extended learning opportunities

  • English classes for families

Our Commitment to English Learners

English learners are supported with the social, emotional, cultural, linguistic, and academic skills necessary to excel in higher education, work, and life.

  • Our team is dedicated engaging, empowering and valuing Non-English Language Background families, students, schools, and community through the following:
  • Our student have access to evidence-based, rigorous instruction on English Language Development and grade-level content standards.
  • Our teachers ensure English learners have access to grade-level content and language development with a strong literacy foundation.
  • We support families and teachers in bridging home literacy practices and school instruction. 

Free Virtual or In-Person English Classes

The Office of English Learners offers English Classes for adult family members of students in MNPS. These classes are designed to help improve English skills, connect to schools, teachers & other MNPS parents, while sharing their talents. Our adult English classes help families continue to grow in their work, education and life goals. Additionally, participants will get enrichment sessions from community partners to increase awareness of community resources.

  • Classes are once a week from September 2023 to April 2024. Time depends on whether it’s virtual or in-person.
  • Sign up with QR code in the flyers available for download on this page
  • Questions - Call/Text/WhatsApp 615-479-7194 or email Vanessa Lazon.

 

Download ESL Class Information

Download informational flyers for information about the English classes in several language translations.

EL Handbook and Policy Documents