The Multilingual Education Department is dedicated to providing language programs that nurture the holistic development of our students. These programs foster environments that empower students to not only master academic content but also to cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills. We firmly believe that the ability to speak and understand multiple languages is a valuable asset, benefiting individuals, families, and our broader society. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of nurturing a student's home language as the foundational cornerstone for literacy and effective communication, ultimately preparing them to become bilingual, bicultural, and biliterate individuals.

Our programs pave the way for all Uniondale scholars to work towards achieving the New York State Seal of Biliteracy on their High School Diplomas, underscoring our commitment to ensuring that every Uniondale scholar is equipped to be empowered, responsible, resilient, and prepared for leadership, college, and careers.

Our main programs are:

• Bilingual Education Program

• Dual Language (DL) Program

• Transitional Bilingual Education (TBE) Program

• English as a New Language (ENL) Program

• Students with Interrupted Formal Education (SIFE) Program

• World Languages (WLs) Program

• Foreign Language in the Primary Schools (FLES) Program

Our schools encourage the study of languages to give every scholar the opportunity to graduate with the New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB). The NYSSB recognizes high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in English and one or more world languages. The NYSSB takes the form of a Seal on the student's diploma and a medallion worn at graduation.

Dr. Estrella Olivares-Orellana, Director of Multilingual Learners
eolivares-orellana@uniondaleschools.org 516-918-1133

Ms. Victoria Basantes, MLL Intake Coordinator  
vbasantes@uniondaleschools.org 516-918-1008

Dr. Mariana Gil, Interim World Languages Coordinator  
mgil1@uniondaleschools.org

Ms. Luisa Delarosa, Administrative Assistant
ldelarosa@uniondaleschools.org 516-918-2335

Ms. Hailey Portillo, Administrative Assistant hportillo@uniondaleschools.org 516-918-2366