Olentangy Local School District - An International Community

The Olentangy Local School District serves more than 23,000 students and their families. Approximately 6% of our students are learning English as a new language, and will soon be bilingual or even multilingual. 

In addition to our English Learner (EL) program, Olentangy offers a robust World Languages Program wherein all students can learn foreign languages.

In Olentangy, we value multilingualism because we understand it gives our students a competitive advantage in an increasingly dynamic world.

Our most skilled multilingual students will have the opportunity to earn the distinguished Ohio Seal of Biliteracy, thereby demonstrating their superior linguistic abilities.  

English Learner (EL) Screening

All families enrolling students in Olentangy Schools complete the Language Usage Survey (LUS). 

Students whose families indicate they use a language other than English on the LUS, will be screened to determine eligibility for English Learner (EL) services as prescribed by state and federal law. 

The screening process may include a review of school records, completion of the Ohio English Language Proficiency Screener (OELPS), or a more detailed discussion with the family about a student’s linguistic experiences. 

Parents will be informed of their student’s eligibility for EL services in a timely manner in accordance with current legal guidelines. 

English Learner (EL) Services

Students who qualify for EL services have access to opportunities and resources that will support the development of their English language skills.

Olentangy employs staff who are specially trained in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). These TESOL-certified teachers, or English Learner (EL) specialists, collaborate with content teachers to provide an excellent educational experience for our students who are learning the English language.  

The collective efforts of our staff members and families will ensure our students achieve proficiency on the Ohio English Language Proficiency Assessment (OELPA) and thrive in Olentangy schools.

 

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