Overview
The NYC Reads English Language Development (ELD) curriculum will help our students learning English improve both literacy and academic performance. This curriculum is for stand-alone English as a New Language (ENL) instruction and is designed to work alongside the regular English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum.
Why is this important?
NYC Reads and NYC Solves have transformed literacy and math instruction across our city. This curriculum takes the work of NYC Reads to the next level by providing select schools with high-quality learning materials that are specifically geared toward students learning English. It will help more students successfully learn English and build stronger literacy skills more quickly.
This curriculum is intentionally designed for students learning English in stand-alone ENL classes. Stand-alone ENL classes are special times during the school day when students who are learning English receive focused support in a small group. These lessons are in addition to their regular ELA classes. The goal is to help students improve their English speaking, reading, and writing skills more rapidly so they are prepared and confident in their learning across all subjects and in every classroom.
The Curriculum
In the 2026-27 school year, 198 schools in nine districts will use National Geographic Learning Reach Higher.
Resources
Below are ways to stay informed, support your child’s learning, and build strong reading and language habits at home.
- Stay Connected With Your Child’s School: Go to school events and information sessions. This includes trainings like the NYC Reads Ambassador sessions.
- Support Learning through Daily Activities: Your child learns language everywhere—not just from books. They can practice English by talking about art, playing word games, or following simple instructions during activities.
- Read, Talk, and Explore Together: Your home language is important. Speaking, reading, and learning in your home language builds strong skills. These skills help your child learn English faster.
- Learn more: Read Every Language Matters: A Family Guide to English as a New Language in NYC Public Schools to learn how English as a New Language works and how you can support your child at home.
Common Questions
What is ENL?
ENL stands for English as a New Language. All English Language Learners (ELLs) receive ENL instruction. ELLs are taught to read, write, and speak in English with support in their home language. ELLs receive ENL instruction during regular classes and at a stand-alone time during the day, depending on their English proficiency. Schools will use the ELD curriculum during the stand-alone time.
Are there online materials?
This curriculum has a digital platform containing practice activities, tests, and other resources. Families at selected schools will receive information on how to access those materials from their school.
Are materials translated into home languages?
The lessons are in English, but teachers can use students’ home languages to help them learn.
What about English Language Learners with disabilities or students with interrupted/inconsistent education?
This curriculum includes support for students with diverse learning needs.
How will families be kept informed and involved in this pilot?
Families are essential to this program. Schools will share updates and information with families to ensure they are informed and involved.