EL Eligibility

Eligibility, Identification & Screening

Students are identified for English Learner (EL) services through the Home Language Survey, which is completed during enrollment. If a language other than English is indicated, the student is eligible for services and screened using the ELPA21 Screener. This assessment evaluates proficiency across four domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students who score within the state-defined range for English language development qualify for EL services.

EL Services & Instruction

Eligible students receive focused English language instruction tailored to their individual proficiency levels. Services are delivered in a small group, pullout setting and may range from one to two hours per day, depending on the student’s needs. Instruction emphasizes the development of academic English and is aligned with the ELPA21 standards to support progress in both language acquisition and content learning.

Individual Learning Plans (ILPs)

Every student who is eligible for EL support has an Individual Learning Plan (ILP). This plan includes ELPA21 assessment scores, targeted language goals, classroom and assessment accommodations, and input from the student, teachers, and parents. The ILP serves as a practical guide for classroom teachers, helping them incorporate language support into content instruction. EL and general education teachers collaborate regularly to ensure consistent support across learning environments. Students who exit EL services are monitored for four years, and those in their first two years of transition (T1 and T2) must also have an ILP in place to support their continued progress.

Parent Rights & Annual Assessment

Parents have the right to waive EL services if they believe additional language support is not necessary. In such cases, general education teachers provide all language instruction in the classroom. An EL waiver form must be completed each school year, and parents may request a conference with ESL staff to better understand this decision. Even if services are waived, students must continue to participate in the annual ELPA21 assessment until they meet exit criteria. They remain eligible for accommodations in their general education classes, which are documented in their Individual Learning Plans (ILPs), to support their academic success.