ESL instruction is provided by an ESL teacher within grade level/content area classrooms

• 1 teacher: ESL-licensed
• Scheduled as a dedicated time in ways that do not remove ELs' from core content instruction (ELA/Reading, math, science and social studies)

Push-in ESL is an instructional delivery approach in which ESL instruction is provided by an ESL teacher in grade level/content area classrooms. Push-in ESL aligned to the Massachusetts definition of ESL instruction:

• Is based on a dedicated, systematic, explicit, and sustained language-focused curriculum aligned to both the WIDA English Language Development Standards Framework and the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. This curriculum is grade-level appropriate, language driven, and integrated. It draws topics and habits of mind from content standards to ensure language is taught within rich, contextualized, and meaningful circumstances that best support English learners to succeed in school and beyond.
• Is tailored to the characteristics and backgrounds of the students served, leveraging their assets (cultural background and experiences, first language, funds of knowledge, etc.) and scaffolding instruction to meet their needs.
• Requires extensive administrative support and collaboration between ESL and appropriately endorsed content area teachers to develop the curriculum, plan instruction, determine effective student grouping, figure out the physical space where instruction will occur, and share responsibility for students' language development. To support effective push-in ESL instruction, ESL and content area teacher schedules are carefully designed to include dedicated and sustained collaboration time throughout the year.
• Is scheduled carefully to ensure students identified as English learners do not miss core content instruction, since English learners need access to high-quality ESL and core content instruction to be successful and both ESL and content area instruction are legally required components of all English Learner Education programs in Massachusetts.

To learn more about the characteristics, educator roles, and instructional practices for effective push-in ESL, see this Quick Reference Guide .

Last Updated: September 20, 2022