Early Academic Language Pilot

Program Model

The Sobrato Early Academic Language pilot (SEAL) is designed as a comprehensive and developmentally appropriate model of intensive, enriched language and literacy education designed for English language learners in public schools, starting in preschool.The SEAL model was designed by Laurie Olsen, a national expert in English language learner education. A national advisory group provided initial input, and continues to advise the project as the model evolves.

Sobrato Early Academic Language from Mark Wieser on Vimeo.

SEAL is anchored by six research-based foundational components that infuse all aspects of teaching and learning throughout the school day:

Alignment of preschool and the K-3 systems around a shared vision of powerful language development as the foundation for academic success - with support for transitions across systems and levels (including Summer Bridge programs).
Simultaneous academic language and literacy in both English and Spanish
Language-rich environments and instruction with an emphasis on expressive and complex oral language development and enriched vocabulary.
Text-rich curriculum and environments that engage children with books and the printed word, and lead to the appreciation and love of reading and writing.
Language development in the context of enriched curriculum including science, social studies and the arts.
An affirming learning environment that brings together teachers and parents to support strong language and literacy development at home and at school.

SEAL provides intensive professional development to preschool and elementary school teachers through workshop sessions, coaching, and collaborative reflection and planning. This professional development includes: Preschool Guided Language, Acquisition Design training and Anti-Bias Curriculum. This emphasizes the development of oral language related to the cultural, socio-emotional and interaction domains, text engagement strategies with a focus on language assessment and support for dual language development. Utilizing these approaches, teachers develop and implement thematic curriculum units.

SEAL also provides hands-on science workshops and field trips to build background knowledge related to the themes, sponsors artist residencies in the classrooms, and purchases high quality bilingual books and materials for the classrooms. Additionally, SEAL supports parents in developing language and literacy of their children at home and in the classroom.