Throughout February 2025, the EHHS Multi-Language Department administered the LAS Links language proficiency assessment to all students whose first language is not English. This is a statewide alternative assessment. EHHS administers this test to measure English language proficiency for all students in grades K-12.  The test measures students’ ability to listen, speak, read, and write in English. The teachers had students complete two sections each day. There were also considerations and accommodations for students with disabilities. Therefore, the test took about 2-3 weeks to complete for all students.

Based on their English proficiency results on the LAS Links test, many multi-language learners at EHHS receive services and intervention through sheltered classes. Sheltered classes offer support with differentiated resources in order to become more proficient in English while also learning the science, history, English, and math content. In these sheltered classes, students also benefit from being given the vocabulary beforehand in order to be successful with the content. When students are taking the LAS placement assessment, they are expected to take their time and be aware that there are multiple portions to this test. A student’s services and interventions are determined as a result of their test performance.

Mrs. Dyanne Michalowski, an ML teacher since 2007, has been working at EHHS for the last 6 years. She organizes and proctors the test, meaning she has to find a list of students through PowerSchool who are identified as English language learners. Then she goes on the state website, DRC, to organize and schedule testing sessions. Mr. Michael Hickey and Ms. Themi Valsamis, who are also ML program teachers, also help take part in this assessment. This year, around 100 students at EHHS took the LAS Links test.

There are both positives and negatives about this experience. Students can feel motivated and want to continue to feel better about themselves when they see how much they’ve improved efficiency. Students might get poor results due to rushing just to get the test over with and not taking their time and trying their best.

Mrs. Michalowski speaks highly of the EHHS MLL program, especially the ESL Family Night. She spoke about a new student from Turkey to whom she has gotten very close. She loves the opportunity to be a teacher, guide, and sometimes even a parent-figure to all of her students.