English Learner Parent Advisory Council

Contact

Jennifer Albury
Multilingual Education Director
Send Jennifer Albury an Email
(413)-534-2000, Extension 1403

Priscilla Rosado
Language Assessment Specialist & Title III Coordinator
(413) 534-2000, Extension 1410
Send Priscilla Rosado an Email

Holyoke Public School’s English Learner Parent Advisory Council (or ELPAC) is a volunteer community of families and caregivers for multilingual students. ELPAC members meet regularly to discuss school and district news, to support families who may need help navigating the school community, and to create change around the community's voice. 

If you would like to join or for more information on meeting times and events, please contact your school’s FACE Team member. You can also contact Multilingual Education Director Jennifer Albury or Priscilla Rosado, the district's Language Assessor and Title 3 Coordinator.

ELPACS were authorized under the Massachusetts Language Opportunity for Our Kids Act (LOOK Act) that was signed into law on November 22, 2017. The law’s goal is to improve the education of English learners (ELs) and to create more opportunities for input from parents and guardians of English learners in language acquisition programs. 

ELPAC duties include but are not limited to: 

  • Creating by-laws (rules) regarding officers and operational procedures; 

  • Advising the school district, school committee, and board of trustees on matters related to English learners; 

  • Meeting regularly with school or district leaders to participate in the planning and development of programs to improve educational opportunities for English learners; 

  • Advising the district or school on any new proposed language acquisition programs; 

  • Reviewing district and school improvement plans as they relate to English learners; and  

  • Meeting at least annually with the school committee or school council. 

The success of ELPACs depends on building supportive and trusting collaborative partnerships among and between parents, school staff and leaders, and community members. To learn more, please refer to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website.