Imagine yourself coming from another country and everything is new, even the language. It would feel weird, right? How can you communicate if you don’t know English? That’s why the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program was created.

Being in the ESOL program has its benefits. “When I was in ESOL, I had extended time doing a test and I had the option to use a dictionary,” said junior Arianna Gutierrez.

Sophomore Kevin Sanchez said that the ESOL program gives the students more resources to learn the language. He added that not knowing the language inspired him to put more effort to learn it fast and quick. It took him 2 years to get out of ESOL.

In order to get out of ESOL program, students must pass the CELLA test, with sections in Speaking, Reading Comprehension, Writing, and Listening.

Many ESOL students want to get out of the ESOL program. “Being an ESOL student it’s like we are behind the others,” said sophomore Claudia Ferrer.

Sophomore Isabela Perera added that she wants to leave the program too, hopefully by next year, because when you’re an ESOL student, some people may treat you different.

ESOL students feel like the school is doing everything they can to help them get out of the program. “The school gives a variety of options to help us learn English, and so do the teachers,” said sophomore Patricia Santiago.

Junior Gabriela Sanchez likes how the school offers tutoring after school for any subject that the students are struggling with; they even have it in Spanish for the ESOL students.

Being in the ESOL program, however, has some disadvantages. According to sophomore Madelaine Garcia, “It keeps you from getting more of your credits for graduation done.” Sophomore Zuanny Caballos points out that being in ESOL can take away electives in your schedule too.

ESOL students can also help themselves to learn the language.  “They need to read 30 minutes every day, watch TV and listen to music in English,” said ESOL teacher Ms. Selin. “This would help them excel and pass their classes.” She has high expectations for her students, and believes that being an ESOL student doesn’t have to be a reason to do bad in school. “They have the same curriculum as the others,” she said, “just with ESOL strategies.”