Language Intensive Program
The Language Intensive Program (LIP) is designed to provide linguistic, academic, and cultural knowledge, and wrap-around support to English language learners ages 16-21 who do not have a high school diploma. It is a part of Open Doors, offering options for high school reengagement. Students in the program have the option to earn an associate degree, college certificate, and/or high school diploma while enrolled.
Students begin with targeted language classes which are both contextual and navigational. These courses are offered in six levels, and they can be used to earn HS credit. They incorporate language skills, studentship skills, and college and career readiness. Students can start at any level, and they may repeat each level up to 3 times. They must take a minimum of one quarter of this course, but the length of time they spend in the program will be determined by their level upon entry, as well as their dedication to their coursework.
In addition to in class support, students may utilize other wrap-around services such as dedicated academic advisors, tutoring, library services, career services, navigational support, and access to community resources through our relationship with Youth Eastside Services and other organizations.
Once ready for college, students can pursue college certificates or an associate degree in a number of fields (like to academic programs). The courses are dual credit and can be used for both high school and college credit. If they complete all of the requirements of the degree, they will also be granted a high school diploma. For those that opt to take no college courses (or only a few), they will have their transcript evaluated, then be supported either in completing missing credits or transitioning to other programs such as HS+.
- Targeted language classes with focus on reading, writing, speaking, listening and academic skills
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When you are ready, you can attend college for FREE; saving yourself comparable yearly tuition:
- $12,000 at University of Washington
- $50,000 at Seattle University
- Low student to advisor ratio
- Low student to faculty ratio
- Access to scholarships, tutoring programs, and other resources
Throughout their time in the program, students have access to specific resources:
- Personalized and dedicated academic advising for high school and/or college completion
- Scholarship opportunities
- Loan library of required books, tools, and technology
- At least 3 tutoring resources:
- TRIO
- Provides academic and support services to students who are low-income, first generation, or students with disabilities.
- Learning Lab
- Drop-in tutoring from certified tutors, staff, and faculty.
- Supplemental Instruction
- Class-specific tutoring from college professors.
- Office Hours
- All professors offer hours outside of class for one-on-one time with students.
- TRIO
- Language development focused class
- Taught in English
- Explore appropriate steps to reach stated high school, college, and career goals
- Identify and use effective goal setting, time management, and organizational strategies
- Multi-cultural and multi-lingual learning environment
Elaine Wright (she/her), is an English and Spanish speaking educator with varied experience
in Washington and abroad. After earning her M.Ed. in Teaching English to Speakers
of Other Languages from Seattle University, Elaine spent six years teaching English
and academic skills to university students in Kumamoto, Japan. After returning to
the US, she has taught courses in English Language Learning, Adult Basic Education,
I-BEST, and the English department. She also has worked as an I-BEST Coordinator,
supporting language learners with academic planning and navigation as they transition
to college-level courses. Thanks to this experience, Elaine understands the programs,
systems, and resources available at LWTech. It is her philosophy to help students
understand their options so that they can choose whatever will best help them reach
their goals.
For more information, contact: elaine.wright@lwtech.edu
Get Started at Learning English Today!
Students must meet certain eligibility requirements.
- Students must be at least 16 years old by September 1st of the school year.
- Student must not older than 21 by September 1st of the school year.
- Eligbility ends when you earn a HS diploma or Asscoiate Degree, or when you no longer meet the age requirements.
- At risk of not graduating on time or recommended for program by your high school counselor.
- What if I’m not eligible? Check out High School + (HS+)
Lake Washington Technical Academy accepts students for Fall, Winter, or Spring quarter.
All interested students must first attend a High School Options (HOP) information session.
Contact HSP for an appointment
- To schedule an appointment, contact highschoolprograms@lwtech.edu
Attend appointment
- Interested student meets with Elaine Wright or a High School Program staff for an inidividualized HOP meeting.
- Parents/guardians or other supports are welcome to join this meeting.
Submit NSOE application via Skyward
- Attach required documents to application or submit via email, fax, or drop off at our HSP office (East Building, E214).
Placement testing
- Student will need to schedule and take a LIP specific English assessment and Math assessment.
Meet Elaine and Get Registered
- This step can be done in the same appointment for placement testing or after.
- The student, a parent/guardian, and Elaine will meet to finalize enrollment.
Come to Class and Do Your Homework!
Don't forget this very important step!
Contact highschoolprograms@lwtech.edu for more information.
Interest Form
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is eligible?
- Students must be at least 16 and not yet 21 by September 1 of the school year to be
- Students have not met the high school graduation requirements of either the district, tribal compact school, charter school, or the college under RCW 50.535
- Students are credit deficient and not on track to graduate. If not credit deficient, a referral from a school or community organization is required.
- Students need to improve their English before beginning college-level classes. A student’s
English proficiency will not be a determining factor in their eligibility.
- Is enrollment guaranteed?
Eligibility determination is the first key step but does not guarantee enrollment. A student’s English proficiency will not be a determining factor in their eligibility. - What is the schedule?
As of Fall 2023, the classes meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. For more up to date information, contact our office at 425-789-8107. - Can students take other subjects when they start?
Students will begin the English classes, focusing their energy on improving their language skills for a minimum of one (1) quarter. Each quarter, each student will meet with an Advisor to determine their options for the next quarter.