The English as a Second Language Program (ESL) at Fenster school provides English language instruction and support for non-native speakers of English. The program is designed to enable students to take English-only classes as soon as possible.
Every non-native speaker of English who applies for admission to Fenster School will be evaluated both before and after admission to determine their individual language needs. Prior to admission this evaluation ensures that our program can meet the academic requirements of each student. Post-admission evaluation assesses oral and written skills and allows us to place each student in the most appropriate level of ESL instruction.
Students who need additional instruction for their English skills will be placed in one of two levels of ESL and, whenever possible, these classes are arranged as private tutorials so each student’s English language needs are dealt with on an individual basis. Students also take other classes at the same time they are taking ESL and the ESL teachers coordinate with the teachers of other subject areas to ensure that each student is working on the skills they need for success in their regular courses. As soon as it is feasible, international students are moved into regular English classes in order to prepare for college. TOEFL test preparation is an integral part of all ESL courses as it is a requirement for university admission.
Summer ESL and Culture Program
Because Fenster is a college preparatory school, only intensive ESL courses are offered during Summer School. Students wishing to enter Fenster in the fall might consider enrolling in the ESL summer program for high school students which focuses on language and culture. Although the summer ESL Program does not award credit, it does offer a good opportunity to work on language skills in small, relaxed classes. The field trips and activities outside the classroom present the perfect environment in which to improve language proficiency and learn about life in the United States and the Southwest. A heavy emphasis is placed on preparation for the IBT (TOEFL) exam which is required of all non-native speakers of English applying for admission to US colleges and universities.