There is a great deal of language diversity here at Mount Vernon. Based on a native language survey, it was found that we have 30 different languages represented here.

Over ninety of our students receive support from our Bilingual/ ESL program. The purpose of this program is to assist the English Language Learner (ELL) in the mastery of English and to provide content area instruction while language instruction takes place. All ELLs receive at least one period of ESL instruction daily. Within this group, there is a large sub-group whose native language is Spanish. In addition to ESL services, this group receives literacy & math instruction in both English & Spanish each day.

The ultimate goal of the Bilingual/ESL program is to mainstream all English Language Learners into the general classroom schedule once they have become proficient in English.

Students in the 6-8 grade experience the world in the classroom with authentic, multicultural literature and National Geographic informational texts. The program allows students to become stronger readers with well-known authors and National Geographic Explorers.

The INSIDE curriculum:

• Teaches with new explorations and discovery
• Engages students with National Geographic exclusive content
• Achieves success with Common Core State Standards.
• Provides myNGconnect an engaging online digital experience to enhance the print material.