Program Overview - The English as a Second Language (ESL) program at 'Iolani School offers quality education to outstanding, non-native English speaking students. ESL is an innovative program, designed to meet the needs of each student while providing a nurturing learning environment.
Students who are accepted into the ESL program are required to attend selected classes in Summer School and an Intensive ESL program in August before the start of the regular school year. ESL students transition into the mainstream curriculum as soon as they can function comfortably in their content classes. They continue to visit ESL for study halls and content/language support.
Curriculum Goals - The ESL curriculum goals for each student include
- the ability to comprehend and communicate effectively and efficiently in oral and written English
- the ability to comprehend and apply grade-level content and knowledge
- the ability to function appropriately in the 'Iolani, Hawaiian and American cultural environments
- the ability to think critically and solve problems
- the ability to study effectively and efficiently.
Admission - Entry levels for admission to the ESL program are Kindergarten, Grades 6, 7, and 8; generally, openings are not available at other grade levels. The total number of ESL students fluctuates between 10 and 18 students; most come from the Japanese, Korean, Taiwanese, and Chinese international business communities. Children from bilingual families in the Honolulu international community also participate in the 'Iolani ESL Program. Enrollment for the 2008-2009 school year is 12 students. Click here for more information on ESL admission.
Scholastic Ability - ESL students reflect the high standards of 'Iolani School. Applicants are evaluated on the basis of academic reports and test scores, as well as their cognitive abilities and English language proficiency. Ideal ESL candidates are highly motivated, very bright, and willing to work hard.
Language Proficiency - Most students have at least one year of exposure to English before enrolling as 'Iolani ESL students. Students entering at Grades 6 and 8 must demonstrate high-intermediate proficiency.
Teachers and Students - The program has two experienced full-time ESL-trained instructors and a low student-to-teacher ratio. ESL students spend much of their school day in the regular 'Iolani classrooms.
Level of ESL Support and Tuition - Candidates are admitted to the ESL Program as Full ESL ($29,500) or Integrated ESL ($22,700) students, depending on their language proficiency.
Residency - Since 'Iolani School has no boarding facilities, it is important that ESL students live on Oahu with their families. Parents are expected to be fully involved in their child's education at 'Iolani.
Inquiries and Applications - Inquiries about the 'Iolani ESL program are welcome throughout the year. ESL application materials are available beginning early September for admission for the following fall. Early application is advised. The deadline for Kindergarten applications is October 30, and the deadline for Grades 6, 7, and 8 applications is December 1. If you have any questions about the programs, please contact our Director and Lower School teacher, Ms. Johanna Guth or the Upper School teacher, Mrs. Katherine Hanlon, via this website.
For more information on Grades 7-8 ESL applications, contact:
Mrs. Patricia Novak Liu, Director of Admissions
'Iolani School
563 Kamoku Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
Phone: (808) 943-2222
Fax: (808) 943-2297
E-mail: usadmiss@iolani.org
For more information on Grades Kindergarten and 6 ESL applications, contact:
Mrs. Kelly Monaco, Associate Director of Admissions
'Iolani School
563 Kamoku Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
Phone: (808) 943-2255
Fax: (808) 943-2338
E-mail: admission@iolani.org
