ESL Program

Students are required to take an English language proficiency test during the August orientation. Students will be assigned to appropriate ESL classes based on their English proficiency levels. Our mission is to give each student all the support and instruction in English we can to ensure success at St. Mary's and in college.  

The English for International Students program at St. Mary's School is a comprehensive program which develops students' critical reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. There is a particular focus on both grammar and vocabulary study as essential elements in building a strong language base.

Students take one ESL class, and intermediate students take an additional Intermediate Writing Class. Students with a TOEFL score of 100 and a proven ability to write advanced essays are not required to take an ESL class.

St. Mary's School prepares students to succeed in their academic coursework and earn good scores on the SAT and TOEFL. We pay particular attention to developing essays reading critically, discussing class topics and giving oral presentations.

Teaching Staff

Ms Ronda Sheffield is the Director of English for International Student at St. Mary's School, and she also serves as the academic advisor to international students. She teaches advanced composition and provides academic  support to all students. She has a master's degree in teaching ESL and thirty years' experience working with international students in the U.S. and abroad.

Ms Tara Weinberg teaches classes in critical reading, essay writing, vocabulary development and test taking skills to intermediate and advanced students. With two-years' teaching experience in Korea and more than ten years in the U.S., she is committed to helping students excel in their high school classes and beyond. Ms Weinberg has a bachelor's degree in International Relations and Russian with an additional advanced certificate in teaching ESL.

Mr. Dave Kahn teaches essay writing to intermediate students at St. Mary's School. With more than twenty years' teaching experience including time as a Peace Corp volunteer and a teacher in a bilingual classroom, Mr. Kahn brings focused instruction to his writing students. Mr. Kahn has a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in teaching ESL.