The ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Program is designed to instruct multicultural students in English while simultaneously phasing them into the American school system and community. Since students arrive in the United States with different instructional experiences, each student is individually assessed upon entering Fairfax County for the first time. After assessment by Central Registration and ESOL teachers, students are placed into one of the following three levels:

ESOL A/VDOE 1 (Beginners)
ESOL B1/VDOE 2 (Intermediate)
ESOL B2/VDOE 3 and 4 (Advanced)

Individual ESOL support is provided for each student as they progress through the listening, speaking, reading and writing English process. Appropriate reading-level literature and content material help students expand their vocabulary. Each course includes the writing process for ESOL students. The learner's cultural background is an important factor in the language learning process and included within ESOL instruction. ESOL students also learn about other world cultures/customs from their fellow classmates as they examine cultural similarities and differences.

Within an English language arts program, American culture and traditions and the high school community are explored. Students are encouraged to participate in at least one community project raising their social awareness, and making connections to what they have learned in other classes. Teachers plan for both content and language development of their ESOL students.

Westfield High School now has parent liaisons for both Korean and Spanish speakers to assist parents, students and families with academic related concerns.

For more information about ESOL in Fairfax County, check out the website http://www.fcps.edu/DIS/OESOL/index.htm

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