Program Newsletter
EWSD Multilingual Program
Special Statement
We extend our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to all community members affected by the violence in Israel and Gaza. We are especially concerned about our community members in the Essex Westford School District who have family, friends, and loved ones directly impacted by this tragic situation.
We would like to remind everyone that resources are available for students and staff seeking connection and support through our counselors and human resource department. Any instances of bias or harassment within the EWSD can be reported to school staff and administrators.
We as a larger community can be mindful of how these events could be affecting our friends, colleagues, and community members. We can be present for anyone hurting for any reason as it relates to this conflict.
Collectively, we can demonstrate an increased level of compassion and understanding towards one another in the upcoming days. We continue to hope for a resolution to the ongoing turmoil and, most importantly, the safety and well-being of everyone affected.
-The EWSD Multilingual Advisory Council
*If your students are asking questions and you would like support please feel free to contact Seham Alsakkaf, EWSD Multilingual Liaison, or Tamara Parks ML Program Coordinator
Essex Westford Hires New Americans
The Intersection of Multilingual Learners and Special Education
Evaluating students for special education who are multilingual and learning English requires additional considerations. EWSD teachers and leaders have developed this tool to support teams in that process. We want to provide this resource to help with special education referral and determination for multilingual learners.
Special Education Referral & Determination Checklist for Students Receiving EL Services
For EWSD Staff: After reviewing the checklists, please let us know what types of follow-up would be most helpful by completing this short survey.
Multilingual Advisory Council
Happy Dashain!
EWSD Multilingual Program Field Day
Giant Jenga
Balloon Animals, Face Painting & Raffle
Watching Soccer
Pick Up Soccer Game Led by Volunteers
Some of the Council Members
Spectrum Multicultural Youth Program
Analyze the Video- EL Teaching Strategies
Recommended Conferences for Educators
- Northern New England TESOL- 3 EWSD Educators are going, come join us!
- ESEA Conference Portland, Oregon- At least 4 Vermonters will be there either presenting or attending!
Support for Newcomers
- Vermont Foodbank 3SquaresVT Application Assistance: 3svt@vtfoodbank.org https://www.vtfoodbank.org/nurture-people/3squaresvt
- VT Legal Aid's intake information (for benefits or other legal questions): https://vtlawhelp.org/how-we-can-help
- Association of Africans Living in Vermont: 802-985-3106 or info@aalv-vt.org
- Vermont Immigrant Assistance at Vermont Law School: 802-831-1552 or viaclinic@vermontlaw.edu
- Vermont Asylum Assistance Project: vaap@caspvt.org
Leadership for Welcoming Newcomer Students 6 Steps
Programs to Welcome Newcomers
2. Uniting for Ukraine | USCIS
3. Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans | USCIS
Kiribati Translator
Multilingual Program Web Page
Here are a few links you may find helpful:
EWSD Multilingual Program
Email: tparks@ewsd.org
Website: https://www.ewsd.org/page/multilingual-learner-program
Phone: (802) 878-8168