DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) – Dothan City Schools is seeing steady progress in English proficiency among its students, marking an improvement over the past three years. Recent data highlights an increase in English Learner (EL) proficiency, signaling a strong pathway to success for students in the program.
The state of Alabama assesses English language competency through several methods. EL students participate in the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program for accountability in English/Language Arts. Additionally, Dothan City Schools administers the ACCESS for English Language Learners test to track progress. The district submits these results to the Alabama State Department of Education for inclusion in the annual ALSDE report card.
For the 2022 school year, Dothan City Schools recorded a 36% proficiency rate among English Language Learners. That number increased to 40% in 2023. The latest 2024 report card shows a further rise to 44%, surpassing many neighboring school districts. Statewide, Alabama has experienced a steady rise in EL enrollment, and Dothan City Schools continues on an upward trajectory.
“The steady increase in proficiency rates is largely due to the English Language Learners staff and the classroom teachers who diligently work with students across the district to improve their aptitude of core subjects. We firmly believe their efforts will lead to success for our students—not only while they are in school but in the workforce after graduation,” said Dr. Dennis Coe, Superintendent of Dothan City Schools.
“Through the tireless efforts of our English Language Learner teachers working in partnership with classroom teachers, scores are continuing to improve each year, which gives us a reason to be proud,” said Sarahann Odom, English Language Learners Coordinator. “We know there is still much work to be done, and we are committed to ensuring all of our English Learner students reach proficiency.”
Dothan City Schools provides additional resources for EL students, including an EL Policy and Procedure Manual and a Comprehensive English Learner District Plan available on the district’s website.
For more information, parents can contact Sarahann Odom at 334-793-1397.
