English Language Learners

Jennings County School Corporation provides direct assistance to students whose native language is other than English. Our goal is to assist in bridging the language barrier in order to allow students to successfully communicate and to master the skills taught at each grade level. JCSC provides assistance to these students until they have the ability to meet Indiana’s academic standards.

Individuals who need assistance or who may have questions regarding our program may contact the Jennings County Administration Office at (812) 346-4483 ext. 1, or stop by the office at 34 Main Street, North Vernon, Indiana.

What Is the Definition of an English Learner (EL)?

According to ESSA, an EL is an individual who:

  • is aged 3 through 21;
  • is enrolled or preparing to enroll in an elementary school or secondary school;
  • meets one of the following criteria—
    • was not born in the United States, or whose native language is a language other than English;
    • is a Native American or Alaska Native, or a native resident of the outlying areas; and comes from an environment where a language other than English has had a significant impact on the individual's level of English language proficiency (ELP); or 
    • is migratory, whose native language is a language other than English, and who comes from an environment where a language other than English is dominant; and
    • has difficulties in speaking, reading, writing, or understanding the English language, that may be sufficient to deny the individual
      • the ability to meet the challenging state academic standards;
      • the ability to successfully achieve in classrooms where the language of instruction is English; or
      • the opportunity to participate fully in society.