English Language Pathways

Welcome ⸱ Encourage ⸱ Celebrate

English language learners have a rich linguistic background which enriches our whole school with the diverse cultures and knowledge that they bring to the classroom. We value the assets and contributions our emergent bilingual students bring to our school community at ASHK. To help every student follow their path, our experienced EAL faculty nurture students to exceed their growth targets by having the language support to fully access our curriculum.

ASHK provides distinct English Language support programs for families looking for high-quality international education for children still developing their English language skills. In all programs, students benefit from an academically rigorous standards-based curriculum and inquiry-based learning approach while being supported to acquire the English language skills they need to succeed.

• Mainstream English as an Additional Language Program (EAL)

• Foundational English Program (FEP) (Grades 2-5)

• Bridging Program (BP) (Grades 6-9)

In Secondary, our English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports English language learners and emerging bilingual students in developing the language proficiency and academic confidence needed to thrive in an English‑medium environment. Students engage fully with the grade‑level curriculum while receiving targeted support to strengthen listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills across all subject areas.

Each qualifying student receives an individualized support plan that identifies specific language development goals aligned with classroom learning objectives. EAL teachers work in close partnership with subject teachers to ensure students can access lesson content and demonstrate understanding through appropriate scaffolding and differentiated strategies.

Depending on individual needs, support may occur in several formats: within mainstream classes through team‑teaching and in‑class assistance, or in small‑group sessions focused on building academic literacy, vocabulary, and communication skills in a supportive setting. The goal is to help every student become an independent, confident user of English while continuing to celebrate and value their multilingual identity.

The EAL Department uses the WIDA English Language Proficiency Assessment to determine the appropriate level of support for each student. Proficiency is reviewed at the beginning and end of the school year, and progress is monitored regularly through standardized and formative assessments to guide instruction and ensure continued growth.