Newcomer Center

The Richardson ISD Newcomer Center is the central facility where students new to RISD are assessed for language ability.

Overview

The Richardson ISD Newcomer Center is the central facility where students new to RISD in the following situations are assessed for language ability:

Students for whom a second language is spoken in the home as indicated on the Home Language Survey completed at enrollment.
Potential pre-kindergarten students with a pre-kindergarten referral.

The assessments conducted at the Newcomer Center assist RISD in determining which district schools, programs and/or services are appropriate for the student.

The enrollment process for every student in RISD begins at the neighborhood school, not the Newcomer Center. (Parents unsure of their neighborhood school may visit the RISD School Finder). Parents should come to the Newcomer Center after being referred by their neighborhood school and either completing a home language survey or obtaining a pre-kindergarten referral.

Office Hours

Regular office hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00am-3:00pm.

English as a Second Language Program

c) The goal of English as a second language programs shall be to enable limited English proficient students to become competent in the comprehension, speaking, reading, and composition of the English language through the integrated use of second language methods. The English as a second language program shall emphasize the mastery of English language skills, as well as mathematics, science and social studies, as integral parts of the academic goals for all students to enable limited English proficient students to participate equitably in school.

Texas Administration Code §89.1201

All RISD campuses offer on-site ESL services. Elementary ESL is provided through a pull-out program, while secondary ESL courses are scheduled within the student’s daily schedule.