Successful ESL programs in American high schools?

This question is targeted towards those who might know about ESL (English as a Second Language) programs in high schools. Do you guys know of any successful ones? My school is trying to improve ours and we could use some successful models to learn from.

Sure, there are many effective ESL programs across the country and some of the most notable ones often have a few things in common. They usually feature elements like targeted language instruction tailored to different proficiency levels, integration with mainstream classes when appropriate, and robust teacher professional development.

For example, the ESL program at Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, Illinois, is recognized as one of the top programs nationwide. They use a co-teaching model where mainstream teachers and ESL teachers work together in the classroom. This approach supports ESL students’ English language development while they learn subject content at the same time.

On the flip side, Newcomer Academy in Louisville, Kentucky, created a successful model by focusing intensely on its student body, which exclusively comprises recently arrived immigrants and refugees. They utilize a holistic approach towards education, addressing not only the academic but also the social-emotional needs of students newly transitioning to the U.S. school system.

Interestingly, PSJA Southwest Early College High School in Pharr, Texas, has a Dual Language Enrichment Program that promotes bilingualism and biliteracy. With a focus on both English and Spanish, this program not only helps ESL students but also benefits native English speakers looking to become bilingual. Their model encourages mutual learning of languages among both ESL and native English speakers.

The models adopted at these schools might not perfectly fit your scenario, but they do inspire. The success of these schools' ESL programs comes from their well-integrated models, where ESL students are instructed both in separate ESL classes as well as mainstream classrooms, and their commitment to fostering bilingualism and biliteracy. Success also stems from their teachers' continuous professional development and, importantly, their empathy towards their students' individual experiences as they learn a new language.