Teen Literacy Center

Omaha Public SchoolsDepartment of Curriculum and LearningOffice of English as a Second Language

What is the Teen Literacy Center (TLC)?• A unique program designed to target the academic, social,

and emotional needs of English Language Learners, ages 13-21 with interrupted or limited formal schooling.

• Equips students with academic and life skills needed to be successful in future educational and vocational settings.

• Primary goal is to assist students in acquiring a 3rd-4th grade level in Reading and Math so they can return to their high school of choice

Pilars of Success• Small class environment• Balanced literacy instruction, including Guided Reading• Content area literacy instruction (Math, Social Studies, and

Science)• Take-Home Book Program• Highly-trained English as a Second Language instructors

Program Eligibility Guidelines• OPS considers each student referral on a case by case basis

• Student demonstrates limited English proficiency. (ELL student)• Student reads/writes below a 2nd grade level in his/her native

language• Student has experienced limited or interrupted formal

schooling in his/her native country.• Student is experiencing little to no academic progress at

his/her home school.• Student is eligible for OPS transportation or can provide his/her own

transportation to the TLC. (special city bus training exceptions)

Typical TLC Student Profile• A student with limited or interrupted formal schooling....

– Refugee student who did not have the opportunity to attend school– Refugee student who attended school BUT schooling was interrupted,

substandard, or shortened– Student who lived in a rural town with limited educational opportunities– Student who went to school inconsistently due to family obligations– Student who was forced to work due to economic constraints; schooling

was stopped

How Long does a Student Stay at the Teen Literacy Center?• A student typically spends 1-3 years in the program• The TLC’s goal is to successfully transition a student to one of

the following:– ABE or GED– High School– Work Experience

How does someone make a referral to TLC?

If you suspect an ELL student age 13-21 may qualify for the Teen Literacy Center please call:

Dawn Mathis at:557-2434

OR Gulnora Isavea at:

557-2494

Three TLC LocationsMiddle School Locations

• Beveridge Magnet Middle School• Lewis and Clark Middle School

High School• Career Center

TLC Referral Process• Step 1: Obtain English LAS scores• Step 2: Obtain a native writing sample; determine reading level

in native language• Step 3: Administer a basic Math test • Step 4: Administer a Reading Running Record (English)• Step 5: Conduct ESL Parent Information Survey• Step 6: Dawn Mathis or Gulnora Isaeva reviews student

information and data• Step 7: SAT is scheduled; recommendations are made

Dawn MathisOmaha Public Schools

ESL Lead Teacher402-557-2434

TAC Building, 4th Floor

Thank you for your time.

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