EL Program

Initial Identification

If the first three responses on the Home Language Survey indicates a language other than English, the kindergarten student is assessed within two weeks if enrolled after the beginning of the year in English to determine their English proficiency in listening and speaking.

California English Language Development Test (CELDT)

The state approved test used for language assessment is the CELDT test. This test is given only once for initial identification and each year thereafter for annual progress monitoring.

Primary Language Assessment

State law requires that English Learners be assessed for primary language proficiency. The Student Oral Language Observation Matrix (SOLOM) is used in lieu of a formal assessment. The purpose of the rating is to gain information that will help to identify the student's oral language level in their primary language.

Parent Notification

Parents are notified in writing, in a language they can understand, (and orally, if they are unable to understand written communication), of the results of the initial language assessment within 30 days of initial enrollment and assessment. The parent notification includes test results of English language proficiency and primary language proficiency as testing resources allow. The notification is provided in English and Spanish.

Structured English Immersion with Primary Language Support

The instructional model is designed for English Learners whose English language proficiency is between the beginning and low intermediate levels. Classroom instruction is in English with Primary Language Support from English Learner Specialists. The program goal is to develop English language proficiency and provide developmental access to the core curriculum through English using Specially Designed Academic Instruction in English (SDAIE) strategies when appropriate and through instruction modifications to text, teacher language, and other strategies designed to make instruction comprehensible to a non-English proficient student. It should be understood that students would not fully master the grade level content standards until they achieve English proficiency. All Kindergarten English Learners receive daily English Language Development instruction at each student's specific level of proficiency with the District adopted curriculum by an appropriately certified teacher (CLAD).