Gables Academy believes, and research has proven, that the most non-threatening and successful way to give a student from another culture a firm grasp of the English language is by immersion. By placing the child in an atmosphere where he is not only taught "this is how you say it-do it," but given the opportunity to live the language through the culture, the student begins to adapt to their second language much for effectively.

When ESL students are offered knowledge of English as their second language only through classroom instruction, unseen barriers frequently prevent the student's learning without frustration. For example, a teacher in a traditional ESL classroom might unknowingly say, "got it?" or "is that clear?" These phrases, so common to an American child, can have a completely different meaning to a student studying the English language only from a grammar book or dictionary. Slang, similes and such are not taught to ESL children traditionally, leaving some phrases and words to completely confuse and baffle. This can be especially difficult and frustrating for ESL students who may additionally have learning difficulties.

At Gables Academy, the ESL child is immersed in not only the language, but also the culture. He or she lives in an English-speaking environment, socializes with English speaking students, teachers and counselors. In this manner, the English language slowly becomes a part of the student and his or her adventure into a new and exciting world. Another great advantage to the ESL program at Gables is the small classroom setting. The overall student/teacher ratio is an impressive six to one, therefore individualized attention is a part of every day instruction. Reading clinics conducted by reading specialists help the ESL student with the written part of the language.

With deep respect for a child's native culture and language, Gables Academy makes studies and exposure of our native culture available to the child. When possible, a member of the community with a similar cultural background is recruited to befriend the ESL student. It is not Gables' purpose or intent to erase a child's native wealth in order to teach him or her a second language. It is rather to blend both worlds so that the child may live comfortably and confidently in both cultures.

The ESL child is immersed in not only the language, but also the culture. He or she lives in an English-speaking environment, socializes with English-speaking students, teachers, and counselors.