What is a Multilingual English Learner?

A Multilingual English Learner is a student who lives in a home where a language other than English is spoken and is still developing academic proficiency in English reading, writing, speaking, and listening

How are Multilingual English Learners identified?

Upon enrollment in California public schools, parents are required to complete a Home Language Survey to identify languages spoken at home. If a language other than English is specified, the student is tested for English proficiency using the Initial English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC). Students who do not score Initial Fluent Proficient on the assessment are identified as Multilingual English Learners.

What is the goal?

The goal for all Multilingual English Learners is reclassification to fluent English proficiency. The District works collaboratively with parents to ensure all students meet reclassification criteria (EC Section 323(f)):

 Criteria   Proficiency Level 
 English Language Proficiency   ELPAC Overall Proficiency Level 4 
 Academic Achievement  Grade level specific for Local Measures/Level Set reading and/or CAASPP ELA (see district criteria for each grade level).
 Teacher Evaluation  Teachers agrees the student is performing successfully in all academic areas and is at the Bridging level on the ELD report card.
 Parent/Guardian Consultation  Parent/Guardian agrees that reclassification is appropriate.

Services and Programs Offered

Multilingual English Learners receive comprehensive English Language Development (ELD) that is standards-based and provided daily in whole group and small group instruction. The focus is on both academic and language proficiency as students work toward reclassification. At Hedenkamp we offer the following programs:

  • Dual Language Immersion
    • Students become fluent in English and Spanish while developing cross-cultural understanding. Both native Spanish-speaking and English-speaking students can become second language models as they work towards becoming bilingual and biliterate.
  • Structured English Immersion (SEI) - English Only Instruction
    • All classroom instruction is provided in English with curriculum and instruction designed for students who are learning English.

For more information, please visit the district Multilingual English Learners page.

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