English Learner Family Academy (ELFA)

English Learner Family Academy (ELFA) Coffee & Connect Returns!

What is ELFA?

The ESL office is proud to host the English Learner Family Academy, or ELFA, a once-monthly, 4-hour academy session specifically designed to assist both newly arrived and long-term English Learner (EL) families, with an overarching goal of increasing English language acquisition. We also see as part of our mission an additional goal of connecting our families to our district, community resources and partners, as well as to one another. Families attend in hopes of acquiring training and resources provided by both Norfolk Public Schools staff and community partner offerings. Most academy sessions include 2-3 topic presentations, adult family roundtable discussions and peer networking with one another, as well as a light lunch.

Sessions are held at Virginia Zoo, one of our many valuable community partners and learning resources, where our participants receive free admission for all family members and may explore at the conclusion of our sessions.

While ELFA is well-connected to many agencies, we strive to provide additional resource information regarding all programs that would fall under any social service umbrella, including but not limited to academic support, childcare, job training, housing, food, immunizations, overall health and well-being, clothing. We also connect through local charities, social organizations, and Norfolk city agencies, such as the public library.

We offer supervised learning activities for students, ages 3 through 12 during the adult family portion of our program, so that participants may be afforded time to focus on the presented content.

Interpretation is provided during all sessions for most languages with enough notice.

Please, come and join us!

Sessions are scheduled to begin this school year, 2024-2025! Check back for our new dates coming soon! Families, please use our registration links once new dates are posted so that we can ensure your experience is the best it can be!
Interested community partners may reach us at ESLSupport@nps.k12.va.us

We can't wait to connect with you!