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English Learners

There are many programs and services to help students who do not speak, read, write or understand English well as a result of English not being their home language. The overall goal of the various programs is to improve the English language skills of English Learner students, Immigrant students, Migrant students and provide information to their parents about services available.

The California Department of Education helps to support English learner programs in California.

  • For more information about English learner programs, contact your local school district.
  • The English Learner - CalEdFacts page provides a more detailed overview of English learner programs.
  • The links and information below were developed for educators and others who are directly involved with English learner programs.

English Language Development Standards
Assembly Bill 124 (Chapter 605, Statutes of 2011) requires the State Board of Education approve standards for English language development for pupils whose primary language is a language other than English. These standards shall be comparable in rigor and specificity to the standards for English language arts adopted.
Equal Opportunity & Access
Discloses the practices of the California Department of Education to ensure equal, fair, and meaningful access to its employment and program services.
Letters to Local Educational Agencies
Important communication to assist local educational agencies in providing appropriate services and programs for English learners.
Parental Waiver Notification
Notification letter to remind the local educational agency about laws and regulations governing parental waivers as they relate to instruction for English learners.
Reclassification
Information on how a district determines whether or not an English learner student has sufficient English proficiency to be reclassified as a fluent English speaker.
Resources
FAQs regarding English learners in California and appropriate teacher authorizations and links to Web sites with information about developing programs for linguistically and culturally diverse students.
State Seal of Biliteracy
This program recognizes high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing one or more languages in addition to English.
Title III
Language instruction for limited-English-proficient and immigrant students.
Two-Way Immersion
Overview, directory, and resources.

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    The following letters provide important communication and guidance to local educational agencies regarding the provision of appropriate language services through instructional programs for English learners.
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    This letter reminds all local educational agencies (LEAs) of their dual obligation to provide a program for ELs to overcome language barriers and to provide access to the core curriculum.