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English Language Development

ELD students celebrating Day of the Dead

Our mission is to offer our Multilingual Learners a safe, welcoming, and enriching environment where they can effectively develop their academic English skills, adjust to the American school system, and be successful citizens.

Our program addresses two important areas: language acquisition and cultural adjustment for Multilingual Learners in grades K-12. In the area of language development, we provide students with the opportunity to develop academic skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, so that they can be successful within the academic mainstream classroom.

Our program also assists our Multilingual Learners through their cultural adjustment by helping them develop an understanding of American culture. At the same time, we respect and value our students home language and culture; and we encourage them to be proud of their cultural backgrounds and realize the importance of their role in a multicultural society.

All new students to the Multilingual Learner program will be given English language proficiency tests to determine students' eligibility for English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction.

Partnership for Translation Services

WSD is pleased to to work with TransPerfect, one of the world’s leading translation service providers, to offer translation services to our families who speak a language other than English. The district’s relationship with TransPerfect assists our teachers and staff in effectively communicating with parents, guardians, and caregivers about important school matters to better support all students and partner with all families. Communicating with our families is a district priority and is critical to developing strong relationships, a sense of belonging in our school community, and student success.

Key Contacts: Office of Teaching and Learning 

Main Number:
215-619-8000

Jennifer Schmidt, Ed.D.
Director of Teaching and Learning
ext. 1525

Sue Kanopka
Supervisor of Curriculum
ext. 1515

Amy Pescatore
Secretary to the Director of Teaching and Learning
ext. 1510

Meet our Teaching Staff

Pictured below are the ELD teaching staff (left to right): Meghan Cardillo, Chelsea Guerin, Sophie Tanh, Heather Kirk and Kimberly Hulcher.

ELD teachers