English Learner
English Learner Programming
School districts must identify all students whose primary or home language is other than English. The district then needs to assess such students to determine if they are limited in their English proficiency and therefore, require special language assistance to participate effectively in the district's instructional program. After CEVS has identified an English Learner (EL) who needs assistance, it determines what programming will be provided to the student. Ohio does not prescribe a specific type of intervention program. Thus, school districts have the flexibility to decide on the educational approach that best meets the needs of their EL students. The goal is to provide effective instruction that leads to academic achievement and timely acquisition of proficiency in English. Once a school district implements a special language program for its EL students, it must monitor student progress on a regular basis and take steps to modify the program if the students are not making reasonable progress.
State and Federal law require an annual assessment of K-12 limited English proficient students to measure their English language proficiency. This assessment is called the Ohio English Language Proficiency Assessment (OELPA) in Ohio.
Criteria for Exiting an EL Program
To be exited from an EL program, students need to demonstrate the ability to understand, speak, read, and write the English language at a level in which they are able to do the following:
1. Achieve successfully in classrooms where the language of instruction is in English
2. Meaningfully participate in academic assessments in English; and
3. Participate fully in society in the United States.
There are special conditions for exiting an EL program.
Guidelines and further information about programmatic options for EL students are available through the Lau Resource Center at the following contacts:
Address:
Office of Curriculum and Assessment
Ohio Department of Education
25 South Front Street, Mail Stop 509
Columbus, OH 43215
Telephone: (614) 466-4109
Toll Free: (888) 644-6732
Fax: (614) 387-0421
E-mail: lau@ode.state.oh.us