Four Vineland Public Schools ESL/Bilingual programs received the prestigious Model Program designation from the New Jersey Department of Education this year, according to Dr. JoAnne, Negrin, Supervisor of ESL, Bilingual Education, World Languages, and Performing Arts.
Receiving the distinction for the first time this year was the 6-8 Bilingual program. The 9-12 Bilingual program and 9-12 ESL program received the honor for the second time each, and the K-5 Bilingual program for the third time.
According to the DOE, the New Jersey Supervisors of World Languages and the Statewide Advisory Committee for Bilingual and ESL Education developed criteria and reviewed applications to designate the exemplary second language programs. The programs were formally identified through a process that “included extensive program review, as well as a site visit conducted by state officials, college professors, and world language and bilingual/ESL program supervisors.”
“Nobody does this alone,” said Negrin. “Special thanks to the principals and assistant principals who support our teachers and programs on the ground every day. Without you and your steadfast support, this doesn't work. And, of course, thank you to the teachers and their assistants who have stayed dedicated to the students and the goals of the program even through such trying times.”
The schools will serve as resource centers for other districts over the course of the 2020-22 school years. Educators from outside districts are encouraged to visit the model schools to observe the model practices in teaching, learning and assessment.
A virtual ceremony will be held by the Department of Education on June 15.