English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) is the state-funded language instruction educational program for eligible English learners (ELs) in grades K-12 in Georgia public schools (Georgia School Law Code 1981, §20-2-156, enacted in 1985). ESOL language instruction is focused on developing EL students’ academic English proficiency in each content area of the Georgia Standards of Excellence (GSE). The WIDA Consortium English Language Development (ELD) Standards aligned with the GSE guide the work of ESOL teachers. Differentiated instructional practices, both in ESOL and general education classes, ensure that the language development needs of Georgia’s EL students are met. In ESOL language programs it is appropriate, when practicable, to use the student’s home language as a means of facilitating instruction and providing limited English-proficient (LEP) parents with school-related information. 

The goal of the ESOL language instruction educational program for EL students is to increase both English language proficiency (ELP) and academic language proficiency in content-area subject matter. Successful ESOL language programs focus on collaboration and shared accountability for the success of all EL students.