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Michelangelo Junior High School 144
Dr. Jeremy Kabinoff, Principal 2545 Gunther Avenue Bronx, NY 10469

**Welcome to** **E** **nglish as a** **S** **econd** **L** **anguage**
Dear Parents:

As we enter the new school year, there are many things to plan so that your children, my students, excel. Our goal for the 2014-2015 school year is for all students of English as a Second Language (ESL) to strive to reach their academic potential using English, their second language (L2).

English Language Learners (ELLs) need many things in order to achieve this over-arching goal of Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP). This is in contrast to developing Basic Communication Skills (BICS) in English, which some of the beginner English Language Learners (ELLs) have when they first enter ESL class. Of course there are the tangible items that your children will need -- binders, notebooks and other necessities that are listed below. It is the intangible that I would like us to stress. Without these "things", no amount of school supplies can ensure your child's academic success. The intangibles, as I'll refer to them throughout the year, are imperative.

Specifically, our focus this year will be on honing the skill areas of reading, writing, listening, speaking and thinking in English in each of the core subject areas so that students can, as quickly as possible, become proficient in English. I invite you to take an active role in helping your child attain his/her educational goals. This involves supervising all homework assignments, reading with your child in his/her first language as well as in English, asking your child to share what they learn in school each day. On this website and on Teacherease.com, all homework assignments and grades will be posted for you to view.


 * Tangible Necessities**
 * ESL Supplies - one large three-ring binder, a two-pocket folder, pens, sharpened pencils, erasers, rulers
 * The Intangibles **
 * Behavior that is appropriate to our academic setting
 * Respect for self, classmates, teachers, administration and all support staff
 * Perseverance and the desire to succeed academically

I know, that with your help, your child is certain to be successful. I look forward to meeting you at our first parent-teacher conference. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. As always, I welcome your input.

Sincerely, Joanne C. Verrino ESL Teacher Room 321N (718) 794-9749, Ext. 3212