SEAL, Sobrato Early Academic Language, is a comprehensive model of intensive, enriched language and literacy education designed for English language learners, starting in preschool and continuing through third grade. Dr. Laurie Olsen, a national expert in English language learner education pioneered this model with the goal of having students be English proficient by third grade. English language development is integrated in science and social studies units, and the focus is on the use of powerful and complex language by the teachers while teaching these subjects.

 

The program provides professional development and support for teachers and educational leaders, focusing on articulation, implementation of high – leverage instructional strategies and curricular alignment with 21st century skills and the Common Core Standards. 

The professional training for teachers is a two-year process. Kindergarten and first grade teachers completed their second year of training last school year. Currently, second and third grade teachers are completing their second year of training. In addition to the training, teachers attend planning days in which they work with other teachers from Franklin-McKinley Schools to develop themed units that target California State Standards for History and Social Science and the Next Generation Science Standards, along with the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts.

At the end of each SEAL unit, parents are invited and encouraged to attend a Gallery Walk. Students take their parents around the room, explaining the activities and what they have learned during the unit.

 

Sources:

Jacobs, Joanne. "Learning English." Education Next 16, no. 1 (2016): 38-45.