What We Do, Who We Serve:

Welcome to the Springfield Public Schools (SPS) English Learner Program!

Springfield Public Schools serves a richly diverse student population, including learners from Afghanistan, Brazil, China, Haiti, India, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russia, Vietnam, Arabic-speaking countries, various African nations, and numerous Spanish-speaking countries. We are dedicated to offering high-quality educational services to all students, particularly those learning English.

SPS prioritizes high-quality instruction for English Learners (ELs) through various programs and services designed to help students acquire academic English while learning in all subject areas. The Department of English Language Learner Services manages these programs, focusing on improving English language proficiency and ensuring students meet state content-area standards. We deeply value and celebrate our students' native languages and cultural heritage, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.

Multilingual Education in SPS provides guidance, resources, training, and support to ensure all schools create equitable and rigorous learning environments for their language learners. We believe developing home language skills helps students connect with their families, cultures, and communities. We support our students in further developing their native language proficiency at school and home, and we honor this achievement through the Seal of Biliteracy.

Currently, Springfield Public Schools enrolls over 4,500 English Learner students, representing 17% of the district’s total student population. Additionally, 922 students are former English Learners who have successfully achieved English proficiency while enrolled in SPS.

Mission and Vision

The Multilingual Learner Education (MLE) Department in Springfield Public Schools ensures the delivery of equitable and effective programs and services for multilingual students and their families, guiding them from initial assessment through their transition to full proficiency. Our department’s primary goals include:

• Implementing an effective, evidence-based curriculum, instructional methods, and assessment practices that leverage students' strengths and skills.
• Providing educators and leaders with professional development opportunities, collaborative networks, and career advancement paths to enhance their abilities.
• Collaborating with families throughout their children’s academic journey, ensuring they are supported and engaged in learning.
• Promoting students’ development of both English language proficiency and home language skills, valuing bilingualism as an asset, and recognizing achievements through initiatives like the Seal of Biliteracy.
• Ensuring equitable access to rigorous academic opportunities for multilingual learners, including support for advanced coursework, college and career readiness programs, and enrichment activities.

CONTACT
SPS Central Office
1550 Main St, 2nd Floor
Springfield, MA 01103
Phone: 413-787-7100