English Learners

All students enrolling in an Indiana school for the first time must complete the Home Language Survey (HLS). If the HLS indicates a language other than English for any of the required questions, the student is screened using the WIDA Screener (grades 1–12) or Kindergarten Screener. Students who score below the state-defined English proficiency threshold (an overall composite score below 5.0) are formally identified as English Learners (ELs) and become eligible for EL services.

The HLS is a legally binding document and must only be completed once during a student’s academic career in Indiana. It must be retained in the student’s cumulative file and follow them if they transfer schools. 

Eligibility for EL services ensures students receive appropriate English Language Development (ELD) programming and support through an EL Teacher of Record (ToR). The services continue until students demonstrate proficiency, either through achieving a 5.0 on the annual WIDA ACCESS or by qualifying under the additional evidence review process introduced in 2024–2025.
 

Westfield Washington Schools is committed to supporting the language development and academic success of our multilingual learners. As part of this commitment, we utilize the WIDA suite of assessments, which are designed to measure English language proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

The WIDA Kindergarten Screener and WIDA Screener (Grades 1–12) are used to identify students who may be eligible for English Learner (EL) services. These screeners are administered when a student enrolls for the first time in an Indiana school and has indicated a language other than English on the Home Language Survey.

Each year, all identified English Learners participate in the WIDA ACCESS for ELLs assessment. This annual assessment evaluates a student’s progress in acquiring academic English and helps determine continued eligibility for EL services. It is typically administered during January and February, and results are used to guide instruction and support, as well as to inform decisions about exiting students from EL services.

WIDA assessments are aligned to the WIDA English Language Development Standards, which provide a framework for integrating language development into academic instruction across all subject areas. These tools ensure that multilingual learners have access to high-quality education that supports both their language growth and academic achievement.

For more information about WIDA and resources for families, please visit https://wida.wisc.edu.

Westfield Washington Schools is proud to support the academic and language development of our multilingual learners through several research-based programs. These programs help students grow in their English skills while also keeping up with classroom learning.

Every EL student has an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) that outlines the supports they need to be successful. A licensed EL teacher works closely with classroom teachers to provide instruction that meets each student’s language and academic needs.

Here are the main EL program models we use:

• Content-Based English Language Development (ELD)
  • In this model, students learn English through regular classroom subjects like math, science, and social studies. Teachers use strategies to help students understand both the content and the language. This way, students are learning English while also building academic knowledge.
• Sheltered Instruction
  • This teaching method helps students understand academic content using tools like visuals, group work, and step-by-step instructions. All lessons are in English, but they are designed to support students who are still learning the language. The goal is to make learning understandable while continuing to build strong English skills.
• Newcomer Programming
  • This short-term program is designed for students who are new to the United States and may speak little or no English. It helps students adjust to a new school environment while focusing on basic English skills and classroom routines. Once they are ready, students transition into other EL support programs and general education classes.

Westfield Washington Schools is committed to helping all students feel welcome, supported, and prepared for success in and beyond the classroom. If you have questions about EL services, please contact your child’s EL Teacher, your child’s school leadership team, and/or the District EL Coordinator.

 

Name	Role	School/Building	Contact
Dr. Krystal Thompson	District EL Coordinator	Administration Building	thompsonk@wws.k12.in.us EXT: 10058
Abnerys Jimenez	Multilingual Family Liaison	Administration Building	jimeneza@wws.k12.in.us EXT: 10104
Mariana Cobos Escobar	Multilingual Family Liaison	Administration Building	cobosescobarm@wws.k12.in.us EXT: 10103
Somer Compton	EL Teacher	Carey Ridge Elementary School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints comptons@wws.k12.in.us
LuAnn Taylor	EL Teacher	Carey Ridge Elementary School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints taylorl@wws.k12.in.us
Angela West	EL Teacher	Maple Glen Elementary School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoint swestan@wws.k12.in.us
Mayce Hopkins	EL Teacher	Monon Trail Elementary School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints hopkinsma@wws.k12.in.us
Emily Cespedes	EL Teacher	Monon Trail Elementary School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints cespedese@wws.k12.in.us
Caroline Willliams	EL Teacher	Oak Trace Elementary School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints williamsca@wws.k12.in.us
Cheri Davis	EL Teacher	Shamrock Springs Elementary School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints davisch@wws.k12.in.us
Jennifer Sawa	EL Teacher	Washington Woods Elementary School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints sawaj@wws.k12.in.us
Amy Loane	EL Teacher	Washington Woods Elementary School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints loanea@wws.k12.in.us
Andrea Icenogle	EL Teacher	Westfield Intermediate School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints icenoglea@wws.k12.in.us
Lauren Smith	EL Teacher	Westfield Middle School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints smithla@wws.k12.in.us
Karen Fugate	EL Teacher	Westfield Middle School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints fugatek@wws.k12.in.us
Breanna Bever	EL Teacher/Lead Teacher	Westfield High School	Reachable by email or TalkingPoints beverb@wws.k12.in.us

PowerSchool

PowerSchool allows students and families to see attendance, grades, and update permissions to nurse and demographic information. Please contact your child’s school for your initial access code. When you download the PowerSchool app, our district code is SPKZ. 

PowerSchool

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Canvas

Canvas is your child's online learning platform where they can access assignments, grades, and class announcements. Parents can set up an observer account to see student assignments and class announcements. 

Here are some helpful links to support your child and your understanding of the Canvas platform: 

• Canvas
• Canvas Basics for Parents
• Canvas Basics for Parents (Spanish)

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Talking Points

TalkingPoints is our two-way multilingual family communication tool. Teachers and families can stay connected via SMS or in-app text messaging. TalkingPoints has translation built in, so both teachers and families can communicate in their preferred language. 

Here are some helpful links to support your child and your understanding of the TalkingPoints app: 

• Getting Started with Talking Points for Families
• Download the Talking Points for Families app
   

Westfield Washington Schools is dedicated to providing nutritious and affordable meals to support student learning and well-being. Our Food Service Department offers breakfast, lunch, and snack options across all grade levels. Families can manage meal accounts, view menus, and apply for free or reduced-price meals through our online system. To learn more about meal costs, allergy accommodations, and how to set up or manage a LunchTime account, please visit our Food Service page.

Free and Reduced Meals
Families may apply for Free or Reduced-Price Meals if needed. A new application must be submitted each school year to determine eligibility.

 Click here to apply

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What Counts as a “Meal”
To qualify for the Free or Reduced-Price benefit, students must select a complete meal. This means choosing at least 3 of the 4 required components:

• Protein
• Grain
• Fruit
• Milk

Please note that individual items do not qualify as a full meal under the program guidelines.

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Add Money to Your Student’s Meal Account
Parents and guardians can easily create an account to manage their student’s meal payments online. Through the secure School Payment Portal, you can:

• Add funds to your child’s lunch account
• View account balances
• Set up low-balance alerts
• Track purchase history

To get started, simply create a parent account and add your student(s) using their school information.

  School Payment Portal

 

Student Fees

Student fees cover a variety of instructional materials and classroom resources, including but not limited to:

• Textbooks (print and digital)
• Workbooks and classroom novels
• Online learning platforms
• Supplies such as science lab chemicals and art materials

Each year, the Westfield Washington Schools Board of Trustees adopts a fee schedule based on grade level (PK–6) and individual courses (grades 7–12). All student fees must be paid in full by May of each school year to avoid being referred to collections.

student fee payment information

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Computer Insurance

Students in grades 3–11 are issued a Chromebook and may choose to enroll in the WWS Protection Plan—an optional insurance program that covers damage or repair costs. Please note that this plan is not covered under the Free and Reduced-Price Meals program. We strongly encourage families to purchase the protection plan, as repairs can be costly.

computer Insurance information

Attendance

Westfield Washington Schools recognizes that regular, on-time attendance is essential for student learning, growth, and success beyond graduation. Daily attendance builds responsibility, supports academic achievement, and prepares students for future expectations.
Parents and guardians are required to report all absences, late arrivals, or early dismissals as soon as possible.

your school’s attendance line

Please refer to your school’s handbook for guidelines on excused and unexcused absences, as well as procedures for extended absences.

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Transportation
Families can access school bus route details, including pick-up and drop-off times, through our Versatrans e-Link system. 

• Username: guest
• Password: guest

bus route information

If your address has changed or you have questions about transportation, please contact the Westfield Washington Schools Transportation Department directly for assistance.
 

Adult English Classes/GED
Westfield community and Hamilton County offer free Adult English and GED preparation classes to support adult learners in reaching their educational goals. Links below provide more information and enrollment options:

• Grace Church: ​​https://gracechurch.us/carecenter/english
• Westfield Public Library: https://secure.rec1.com/IN/washington-township-in/catalog (Library Program Registration)
• The Excel Center: https://excelcenter.org/
• Washington Township Adult Education: https://www.indyadulted.com/
• Wayne Township Adult Education: https://adulted.info/
• Highlander Park: https://www.warren.k12.in.us/
• Chirstel House Indianapolis: https://www.chdors.org/

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Food Banks
Below, you will find a list of several local food banks available to support families in our district. These resources are here to help anyone in need of food assistance.

• Open Doors: https://opendoorswestfield.org/
• Grace Food Pantry: https://gracechurch.us/carecenter
• Carmel United Methodist Church: https://carmelumc.org/
• Shepherd's Gate Food Pantry: smgonline.org/pantry
• Bethel Lutheran Church: bethellutheranchurch.com/food___baby_pantry

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Free Medical and Dental services
In accordance with district health policies, Westfield Washington Schools require all students to be up to date on their immunizations. To assist families in meeting this requirement, we have compiled a list of local clinics and providers that offer vaccination services.

• Trinity Free Clinic https://www.trinityfreeclinic.org/
• Heart & Soul Free Clinic https://heartandsoulclinic.org/
• IU School of Dentistry https://dentistry.iu.edu/patients/available-services/index.html
• Jane Pauly Health Center https://janepauleychc.org/location/16th-street-dental-center/
• Low Cost Dental Care https://dentistry.iu.edu/patients/low-cost-care.html

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Hamilton County Coats for Kids 
Westfield Washington Schools partners with Kids Coats to help ensure that every child in our community has access to warm winter clothing. Families in need can receive free coats, hats, gloves, and other winter essentials through this program.

Kids Coats website

If you are interested in receiving support or would like more information, please contact your student’s school counselor for assistance.

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Sports, Extracurricular, and Summer Opportunities.

Westfield Washington Schools and our community partners offer a wide range of opportunities to support student growth outside the classroom—from athletics to enrichment programs and summer camps.

• Westfield Youth Sports
  •  Explore community-based athletic programs for various ages and skill levels. 

 Westfield Youth Sports

• Club Soccer
  •  Interested in competitive club soccer? Indy Eleven Academy offers year-round training and team opportunities.

Indy Eleven Academy

• Westfield Schools Summer Camps
  •  Our district offers summer camps that combine fun and learning, designed to keep students engaged during break.

Westfield Summer Camps

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Before and After School Care

 Flexible, high-quality care options are available for elementary students before and after school through the Westfield Washington Early Learning Center.

 Before & After Care