Teachers: How to motivate 8 yr old ESL student?

I have been working w/ ESL students for 2 1/2 years/ in reading. This is a first time situation & would appreciate suggestions. Student is 8 yr. old 3rd grader. Pre Primer to Primer Briggance scores (from Mexico/in US for approx. 2 yrs). So far - this is typical of lots of my students...thing that is different is complete lack of motivation. In part this is due to lack of emphasis on importance of school from home (her education in Spanish/Mexico was treated w/ indifference too). No learning disabilities & potential is good. Ideas to motivate this little one to care about doing well. She does not have behavior issues - just lack of focus and care - responses to her own successes or challenges are the same....no sparkle....Ideas, please? (Already do sticker charts and that kind of thing...also do special WOW! note/certificates for a great week, etc.)