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Elementary School » English Language Learners

English Language Learners

An English learner student is someone who is learning English as a second language. It is the responsibility of schools and communities to provide support and resources to help them succeed. Effective language instruction, cultural sensitivity, and a positive learning environment are crucial for their development.

TASK

PROCEDURE

RESOURCE

Identification

If a student marks primary language or primary language at home is not English as reported on the "Home Survey" they are considered an English Learner student. 

Home Survey

Screening

All students identified on the Home Survey will be given the WIDA test within 30 days of enrollment. 

WIDA Screener Michigan Policy Manual

Reporting

WIDA scores will be reported to the State of Michigan and copy of the WIDA test placed in the student's CA-60.

  

Notification

 

Any student who qualifies as an English Learner will receive a letter from the school identifying them as such. As long as a student meets the criteria of an English Learner the family must receive annual notice.

 

Parent Notification Letter

Annual Notification Letter

Determination

 The principal will meet with parent/guardian, teachers, and MTSS Coordinator to discuss action steps based on WIDA results and the "Can Do Statements".

Can Do Statements
 

If a family already knows their child will be identified as an English Learner student it is possible for them to waive services. This is possible only after the school has explained its services and benefits of participating in the program. Students who waive English Learner services will still be required to take the WIDA screener and may be eligible for Title I or At-Risk services. The waiver must be signed by the family annually and can be withdrawn at anytime by the family.

 

ENGLISH LEARNER WAVIER

English Learner Waiver

Once a student has been identified a family may choose to refuse services. It is incumbent upon the school to present the following information to the parent in a language they fully understand.

  1. The parent is aware of their child's English language assessment score and current academic progress, as well as the reasons for the recommendation of additional English language instruction.

  2. The parent is familiar with the Title III program and its services, having discussed these options with the school.

  3. The parent knows that their child will still be called an "English Learner" and will undergo an annual English proficiency assessment until they no longer meet the criteria.

Parent Refusal Letter

Additionally, a student may exit from English Language Services using the Michigan Department of Education Exit Protocols. A family whose student has met these exit criteria will be given an Exit Letter. It is the responsibility of the school to monitor the students progress for up to four (4) years after exiting services. The students progress will be recorded and progress will go into the students CA-60.

Bellevue Community Schools aims to follow the Michigan Family Engagement it does this by utilizing resources from the Michigan Family Matters website. It also follows a Family Engagement Plan laid out in its Title 1 Plans for the elementary.

 

Elementary Title I Family Engagement Plan
 

To ensure that parent and family communication is sent in a language understandable to the parent and family. Programs that allow for multiple language options are: 

Meaningful access to the core curriculum (e.g. reading/language arts, math, science, and social studies) is a key component in ensuring that English Learner's opportunities to acquire the tools to succeed in general education classrooms within a reasonable length of time.

Some English Learner instructional resources include:

PROFICIENCY LEVEL

MODE OF DELIVERY

Entering / Emerging

Entering EL students will receive instruction provided in a small group on a consistent basis, after direct instruction has been given by the classroom teacher. 

 

Emerging EL students will receive support on a consistent basis during class. 

 

Developing / Expanding

Assessment data is monitored regularly to make appropriate adjustments to support based on data. 

 

Developing: Small group time will be provided during guided practice or independent practice time (language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies). 

 

Expanding: Small group time will be provided as needed during guided practice. Small group time will be provided during independent practice. 

Bridging / Reaching

Assessment data is flagged should there be a dip in performance.

 

Periodic one-on-one check-ins to assess understanding and ability to communicate in: listening, reading, and writing.

Key Principles for English Learner (EL) Instruction:

  1. Instruction focuses on providing ELs with opportunities to engage in discipline-specific practices, which are designed to build conceptual understanding and language competence in tandem.

  2. Instruction leverages ELs’ home language, cultural assets, and prior knowledge.

  3. Standards-aligned instruction for ELs is rigorous, grade-level appropriate, and provides deliberate and appropriate scaffolds.

EL Standards Framework

Students identified as English Learners will need to take the WIDA Screener annually. Additionally, they will have to take the M-STEP as well.