Supporting Long-Term English Learners Through AVID Excel

Long-term English learners (LTELs) at Wright Global Media and Mass Communications Middle Magnet School have access to a unique opportunity for academic support and success through the AVID Excel program.

Taught by Ms. Tina Adam for students in grades 6 to 8, Wright is the only school in MNPS to offer this specialized program, which is designed to meet the needs of English learners who require additional academic language development.

LTELs are students who have attended U.S. schools for six or more years but have not yet achieved English language proficiency. While many of these students have developed strong social language skills, they often continue to need support in mastering the academic language necessary for classroom success. AVID Excel provides targeted instruction and proven strategies that help students strengthen their reading, writing, speaking, listening, and academic vocabulary skills.

Ms. Adam has been a valued member of the Wright faculty since 2019 and is currently in her fourth year teaching AVID Excel. She participates in annual AVID Excel professional learning and has completed more than 30 hours of specialized training in the program.

A strong advocate for the program, Ms. Adam has witnessed firsthand the impact AVID Excel has on student achievement. Over the past year, Wright doubled the number of students who successfully exited the EL program.

“By implementing AVID Excel at Wright, we have been able to empower our LTELs. We have helped build their confidence and provided access to rigorous pathways that lead to success in high school, college, and future careers,” Ms. Adam said.

 

English Learner Department