the school district is using Plato Learning Environment software. It's to help students score proficient on the benchmark exams. For example, a teacher can set their reading or science level for the appropriate grade from kindergarten through twelfth. Students say it improves their vocabulary. It's also web-based, so they can use it at home.



It's just one of several techniques ESL teachers use to teach their students English and prepare them for their future.

As non-English speakers continue to grow, so does the demand for bilingual or ESL teachers. Teachers with the Little Rock School District are currently taking a two-week course. They will earn graduate school credit and be qualified to teach ESL courses.