The intent of the Hillside Public Schools ESL Program is to ensure that English Language Learners/Multi-Language Learners receive a well-rounded program that includes both English Language Proficiency (e.g., listening, writing, grammar, spelling, composition) and as well as the language needed for academic success in the content areas (e.g. mathematics, science and social studies). We strive to celebrate our ELLs/MLLs cultural backgrounds and diversity while ensuring that our students are successfully acclimated to the routines and structures of American society and schools.

At A.P. Morris, we offer ESL classes in addition to a PreK and Kindergarten Spanish Bilingual class. The intent for the 24-25 school year is to add a 1st grade Bilingual Spanish class as well.

At the Elementary Schools we offer a mix of push-in and push out ESL services depending on students’ needs.
In grades 7-12, we offer tiered services for our students delivered by certified ESL instructors. In grades 9-12, Sheltered Instruction classes are delivered in Math, Science and Social Studies to further support our ELLs/MLLs in content classes.
Supplemental digital supports are delivered via small group instruction, Lexia English, Lexia Power Up and IXL.

World Language Department

The Hillside Public Schools District is committed to excellence. In today’s global community, the study of a second language is an indispensable attribute of an educated person. The Hillside Public Schools District offers a multifaceted, comprehensive language program. The curriculum encompasses interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational communication modes while emphasizing the interrelationship between the language and its respective culture. Moreover, multiple language acquisition enables the individual to reflect upon and gain insight into the student’s own language and culture.

In order to meet the demands of this ever-changing society/world, the Hillside Public Schools District provides a choice of language offerings. The goals for all modern languages offered require the mastery of the language with the five areas of emphasis: speaking, comprehension, reading, writing, and understanding the culture of the people whose language is under study.

The teachers provide learning experiences that enrich the students’ cultural, social, and global awareness. The classroom practices differentiate lessons to address multiple learning intelligences. Classroom instruction is driven by the district curriculum.