At BFS, our community is enriched by students from more than 20 countries, including China, Korea, Turkey, and Russia. Some of our students are English Language Learners (ELL), or students whose primary language is not English and who benefit from targeted support as they work toward full English proficiency.

While ELL students often develop the spoken language needed to interact socially within two years, it can take up to five years to acquire the cognitive academic language proficiency needed to succeed with grade–level academic content. 

To support this growth, BFS provides dedicated English language development instruction. Our ELL teachers Mr. Kavanaugh (K–2), Ms. So (Gr. 3–5), and Mr. Kebbas (Gr. 6–12), work closely with students to build strong relationships, identify strengths and areas for development, and deliver direct instruction that builds speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.

At BFS, we believe that knowing each learner as an individual is essential. Our Lower Elementary ELL teacher, Mr. Kavanaugh (Mr. K), explains that for Kindergarten through Grade 2 students, “Writing is often the most difficult skill to develop at first.” To support younger learners, he uses a range of strategies, including:

• Using home-language or translation tools to build understanding and confidence as a bridge to English 
• Supporting writing activities with visuals, bilingual vocabulary, and peer collaboration
• Providing students with opportunities to brainstorm ideas using a graphic organizer and a visual word bank that includes pictures, English vocabulary, and home-language translations 
• Encouraging students to brainstorm and discuss ideas in their home language or a mix of English and their home language, often working with a partner

• Using sentence frames to help students write and revise short English paragraphs

This step-by-step process supports vocabulary development, reduces writing frustration, and increases engagement and confidence by making writing accessible and collaborative for beginning-level ELL students.

To learn more about English learning at BFS, the BeFM Kids program from BeFM 90.5 recently visited Mr. K’s classroom.

The ELL program at BFS empowers students to gain the language skills and confidence they need to succeed. Mr. K cares about his students, and he works hard to ensure their progress. His message to students is:

“I’m very proud of how much you’re learning, and how much your English is improving, and I’m so excited for your future.”

Grade 2 student Sasha G. shared:

“I like Mr. K because he is funny, and I have fun with my friends because we can write books and draw in his class.”

The ELL program at BFS supports our school mission to empower learners to grow socially, emotionally, and academically in a supportive community. We remain committed to creating an inclusive environment that nurtures individual growth and fosters a true sense of belonging.