As diversity increases within the Western Dubuque County Community School District, our commitment to meeting the needs of all learners grows as well. Our English Learner (EL) program is expanding daily, both in practice and enrollment.

Currently, Western Dubuque Schools serve approximately 85 students identified as English Learners across five schools: Western Dubuque High School, Cascade Jr./Sr. High School, Drexler Middle School, Farley Elementary, and Cascade Elementary.

Our dedicated staff includes three certified EL teachers and a team of interpreters, ensuring that all students can overcome cultural and language barriers to achieve academic success.

Upon enrollment at any Western Dubuque school, families will complete a home language survey to assess potential placement within our EL program. Identified EL students will undergo annual assessments using the ELPA-21 assessment, allowing us to monitor their learning and growth similarly to Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP) and other standardized measures.

If you should have any questions about the Western Dubuque ELL program, please contact Dan Wendler at Email Dan Wendler.