At DMS, our mission is to create an environment where all students can learn and succeed in a second language. We aim to make grade-level academic content accessible to Multilingual Learners by focusing on English language development, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Our goal is to provide appropriate instruction to prepare students for academic success in all subjects. The English as a Second Language program helps English Language Learners achieve academic English proficiency and excel in core subjects like math, language arts, science, and social studies.

DMS Program Services: We offer four instructional delivery models based on student needs.

• Content-Based ESOL Classes: English language instruction is delivered through math, reading, science, or social studies lessons.
• Sheltered Instruction: Teachers trained in sheltered instruction help language learners develop academic English while learning grade-level content.
• Co-Teaching: ESOL teachers work with classroom teachers to plan and teach together.
• Monitor: Students who have exited the ESOL Program are monitored for four years to ensure continued academic success.

• Entry into the ESOL program is controlled by testing at the International Newcomers Center, INC. All students new to the United States must be tested by the INC before they can be registered at Duluth Middle School.
• Through INC, students new to the United States will have their English listening, speaking, writing, and reading skills levels evaluated by taking the WIDA English proficiency Screener.
• The ACCESS test is administered in February at Duluth Middle School to all ESOL students to measure their English language learning over the course of the prior year.
• Students’ scores on the listening, speaking, reading, and writing subtests of the annual ACCESS test determine whether a student may exit.

To learn more about the GCPS INC program, visit https://www.gcpsk12.org/schools/enrichment-and-support-programs/about-the-international-newcomer-center or call 678-985-5200.