Identification Process

Home Language Survey (HLS)

Upon enrollment, every student must complete a Home Language Survey. If any answer indicates a language other than English, the student must be assessed for English proficiency.

The HLS asks four questions:

1. What language did your child learn when they first began to talk?
2. What language does your child most frequently speak at home?
3. What language do you (parent/guardian) most frequently use when speaking to your child?
4. What language is most often spoken in your home?

Initial ELPAC Assessment

• Must be administered within 30 calendar days of enrollment (EC §52164.1)
• The Initial ELPAC determines if the student is an English Learner (EL) or Initially Fluent English Proficient (IFEP)
• Results must be shared with parents within 30 calendar days of assessment

Program Placement

Once identified as an EL, the student must receive:

• Designated English Language Development (ELD) — Direct instruction in English
• Integrated ELD — Scaffolded content instruction across all subjects
• Access to the full curriculum — ELs cannot be excluded from core subjects

Long-Term English Learners (LTELs)

Students who have been classified as EL for 6 or more years without reclassifying are considered LTELs (EC §313.1). They require:

• Targeted intervention addressing specific language development needs
• Progress monitoring with additional support services
• LTEL-specific strategies in content areas

Rights of English Learners

• Right to receive ELD instruction
• Right to access grade-level content with appropriate supports
• Right to not be segregated unnecessarily from English-proficient peers
• Right to receive translated communications in the parent's primary language
• Right to participate in all school programs and activities

Dean/Counselor Responsibilities

1. Know your EL students — Review EL data in your student information system
2. Understand EL protections — ELs cannot be disciplined for language-related behaviors
3. Ensure access — Verify ELs are enrolled in appropriate courses with support
4. Communicate with families — Provide interpretation/translation services
5. Monitor LTELs — Track progress and advocate for additional services