DSBN offers a range of programs and supports to help your child build English skills and feel confident at school. Our team will work alongside your family to understand your child’s strengths and needs, and connect you with the supports that will help them succeed.
MLL Support – Elementary (Kindergarten to Grade 8)
Multilingual Language Learners (MLL) receive support as they learn English alongside their classroom learning. “MLL” stands for Multilingual Language Learner.
A Multilingual Resource Coach works alongside your child’s teacher to support language development in a caring and inclusive classroom environment.
English Language Proficiency Assessment
Students may participate in an English language assessment to help us understand their current language skills.
This assessment helps educators plan the right supports for your child and track their progress over time.
Secondary Student Support (Grade 9 to 12)
DSBN offers English language programs at several secondary schools across the region. The Welcome Centre will help your family understand the options and choose the best fit.
Students may be placed in one of the following programs:
ESL (English as a Second Language)
Students in ESL programs:
- have age-appropriate literacy and numeracy skills in their first language
- have had consistent prior schooling
- are learning English to access the Ontario curriculum
ELD (English Literacy Development)
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Students in ELD programs:
- may have limited or no literacy skills in any language
- may have gaps or interruptions in schooling
- are developing foundational literacy and numeracy skills while learning English
Program Locations
ESL and ELD programs are available at schools across DSBN, including:
- Welland Centennial Secondary School (ESL and ELD)
- St. Catharines Collegiate (ESL and ELD)
- Westlane Secondary School (ESL)
- Stamford Collegiate (ELD)
For more information about language learning programs in Ontario, visit the Ministry of Education website.