Patricia Lee, Department Chair
612-668-9155
e-mail   pat.lee@mpls.k12.mn.us 

Dr. Deb Gunter, Coordinator

The Southwest English Language Learner (ELL) Program helps students build proficiency in 

• listening
• speaking
• reading
• writing

Through our program, students become bilingual and bicultural.  The ELL Program aims to prepare students for college.

We believe: 

• ELL students need to learn to read, write and speak English proficiently. 
• First language fluency and literacy support the development of academic skills in English. 
• ELL students should be held to the same high academic expectations as native English speakers. 
• ELL students are eligible to receive all services provided by Minneapolis Public Schools (e.g., ESL,  Sheltered Instruction in content areas, Gifted & Talented, Special Education and Title 1). 
• The success of ELL students is the responsibility of all educators, families, students and the community.