DoDEA serves dependents of the Department of Defense military and civilian employees stationed overseas and in various states and territories within the United States. The DoDEA community encompasses a diverse population; therefore, a program has been designed to increase English language proficiency for students who have a second language influence. DoDEA strives to create a learning environment that encourages assimilation into the second language and culture while maintaining respect for and pride in their cultural and linguistic heritage. The English as a Second Language (ESL) program delivers comprehensive instruction so that English Language Learners (ELLs) can attain the goals and outcomes as set forth in the DoDEA Community Strategic Plan. Programs for ELL reflect DoDEA's guiding principles in providing unlimited opportunities to reach high expectations, equal access to quality education based on standards, new and motivating challenges to inspire excellence, and total accountability.

The DoDEA program for ELLs encompasses both social and academic needs. Emphasis is placed on supporting the student's performance and mastery of English in the content areas. Learning language through the content areas enables the student to acquire age/grade appropriate content standards while developing English language proficiency. Although English is the language of instruction, students are encouraged to continue to develop proficiency in their first language as they acquire English. ESL teachers validate the first culture and language by connecting the curriculum with the student's personal experiences while providing a bridge to English proficiency.

Using a variety of service delivery models and providing a continuum of support services, general education and ESL teachers have a shared responsibility to ensure all ELLs reach full educational parity with their native English-speaking peers, and to provide a language-rich environment that promotes high expectations for academic achievement. ELLs are immersed within the general curriculum and receive instructional services through support in a collaborative classroom.

The DoDEA Home Language Questionnaire (HLQ), performance on language proficiency and system-wide assessments, records reviews, and referrals are used to identify potential students eligible for ESL services. These results, along with the student's academic performance, are used to determine eligibility for services.

The DoDEA ESL Program Guide: Planning for English Language Learner Success, "authorizes the administrative procedures and associated information for DoDEA's ESL program as required by DoDEA Regulation 2440.1 - English as a Second Language Programs."

Contact Information: 

DoDEA E.S.L. Coordinator
DoDEA Education Web Author
4800 Mark Center Drive
Alexandria, VA 22350-1400