Multilingual Program
Mission and Vision
Lyons Township High School is a learning community of diverse languages and cultures.
Multilingual Learners (ML) are students who are developing proficiency in multiple languages. This includes students learning English as an additional language in school.
The Multilingual Program empowers students through the learning of content, language, and culture. District 204 will support multilingual learners as they continue to build upon their social, cultural, linguistic, and academic assets by creating a learning environment that:
- fosters high academic achievement
- honors students' first languages and leverages them as a bridge to English language development
- empowers students to become confident, independent, and self-directed learners
Lyons Township High School District 204 will provide ML students with an optimal and equitable learning environment in every academic setting.
Multilingual Program
Multilingual Learner (ML) education courses are part of an integrated program that supports English language development while providing access to rigorous grade-level content through Math, Science, Language Arts, Health, and Social Studies. These courses are designed for students identified as Multilingual Learners (ML) according to Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) guidelines.
ML identification is determined through the WIDA Screener for newly enrolled students, as needed, and the annual WIDA ACCESS assessment, which measures English language proficiency and progress.
The Multilingual Program supports students in developing English language proficiency while building on their linguistic and cultural assets to thrive in all academic settings. All ML courses are also listed within their respective academic departments in the Program of Studies.
Academic Program Guide: Multilingual Course Offerings
Multilingual Learners Programming
Multilingual Learners (MLs), previously referred to as English Learners (ELs), are students whose first language is a language other than English and who are developing proficiency in English.
How does my student qualify for Multilingual Service and Programming?
When your student is enrolled in a school for the first time, you are given a Home Language Survey to complete. The Home Language Survey, or HLS, asks two questions:
- Is a language other than English spoken in your home?
- Does your student speak a language other than English?
The answers given on the HLS are used to decide whether or not the student is screened for admission into a program for Multilingual Students. Students who must be screened are given a test of their English language proficiency level in some or all of the following categories: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The categories for which they are tested depend on the student’s age and grade level.
If, based on the test score, your student is considered an ML, your student will then be placed into a Transitional Bilingual Education Program or a Transitional Program of Instruction.
Additional Information
get involved: BILINGUAL PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (BPAC)
The Bilingual Parent Advisory Council (BPAC) is an opportunity for families of multilingual learners to connect, learn, and make a meaningful impact in our school community. BPAC meetings provide valuable information about the Multilingual Program, student success, college and career resources, and ways to support learning at home. Families also have the opportunity to share their voices, build connections with other parents, and help shape programs and services that support multilingual learners.
We welcome and encourage all families of multilingual learners to join us throughout the year. Your voice, experiences, and partnership make a difference!
Upcoming bilingual parent community events
- 9/24/26 Academic Program Guide Information & BPAC Board Election
- 11/18/26 Supporting Your Child through High School
- 3/23/27 University Information Session
- 4/14/27 Transition Night for Rising 9th Graders, Newcomers and Transfer Students
- 5/1/27: Illinois Bilingual Parent Summit Conference
- June 2027 (Dates TBD): Parent/Student University Field Trips
Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee Blog (forthcoming)
For More Information:
Julie Jacobo
Bilingual Coordinator
Coordinadora Bilingüe
Office: 708.579.6552
Email: Julie Jacobo