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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