English learning program showing strong results

After two years of participating in an intensive English language program known as Accelerated English (AE) in Healdsburg’s schools, English Learners are showing remarkable progress in language proficiency.
“We fully expect AE to have a profound effect on early literacy and future academic success within the targeted population in Healdsburg public schools,” said Bette Perez of the Healdsburg Education Foundation (HEF).
Accelerated English (AE) is an intensive program for English Learners in grades 1-12 in the Healdsburg Unified School District.
It provides systematic and comprehensive English language development instruction for up to three hours per day.
After two years in operation, the AE program is achieving unprecedented results in moving students to English proficiency and consequently, to grade level academic achievement. In addition to substantial academic growth, the AE program has improved student confidence and student engagement.
The funding for this program has been a joint effort between the Healdsburg Unified School District (HUSD), and HEF, which has raised more than $180,000 for the program through the generosity of community donors, including The John Jordan Foundation, which has donated $50,000 to date.
“This program shows results with data but also in the confident, excited faces of the students. The John Jordan Foundation’s investment is great for the students but also for our community. We are proud to be partners with HUSD and HEF,” said Lisa Wittke Schaffner, Executive Director of the John Jordan Foundation.
Through HEF’s fundraising efforts, the program also received a major $125,000 grant from the Sonoma Wine Country Weekend Fund the Future event.
Empowering all of Healdsburg public school students to achieve their dreams for college and career is a priority of the partnership between HEF and HUSD, said Perez.
If you would like to learn more about the Accelerated English Program or take a tour of the 2015 Accelerated English Summer Academy on June 16 or 18, contact Perez at 433-1223.
– Submitted by HEF