Laurel Dell Elementary School

The Laurel Dell Staff is trained and implements the SEAL (Sobrato Early Academic Language) models from Transitional Kindergarten through fifth grade to help build academic vocabulary through the use of content curriculum in science, math and/or social studies.  The SEAL model is specifically intended to support English Language Learners to enhance their oral fluency skills (76.6 % of our students are Multilingual Learners). Thematics units are taught at all grade levels through the use of these strategies.

The Sobrato Early Academic Language program is a model of professional development in the area of language acquisition and literacy. The strategies and model promote English language acquisition, academic achievement, and cross-cultural skills. SEAL is an instructional model with clear, practical strategies promoting positive, effective interactions among students and between teachers and students. In additiion, the SEAL program develops metacognitive use of high level, academic language and literacy. 

In summary, the following features make the Sobrato Early Academic Language program promote successful, involved teachers and students:
• A unique blend of academic language and literacy that marries the research from many fields and organizes the strategies and classroom implications into a process.

• ... It has been found useful as a trainer of teachers and as a trainer of trainers.

• A classroom environment that values the student, provides authentic opportunities for use of academic language, maintains highest standards and expectations for all students, and fosters voice and identity.

• Primary language can be provided by trained bilingual teachers, trained bilingual aides, trained parents, or cross-age/peer tutoring. The unique aspect is that with this model both languages complement each other through integrated themes.

• The amount of oral language for negotiation for meaning and cross-cultural interaction is extensive.

SEAL Website