Proposition 58 (2016) — California Ed for a Global Economy

Proposition 58 replaced the restrictive provisions of Proposition 227 (1998) and expanded language program options for English Learners. Key changes:

• Removed the requirement that ELs be taught "overwhelmingly in English"
• Allowed schools to establish dual-language immersion and bilingual programs without parent waivers
• Created a process for parents/community to request specific language programs

Program Models

Structured English Immersion (SEI)

• Instruction primarily in English with ELD support
• Most common program model in California
• Appropriate for students at beginning to intermediate English proficiency

Transitional Bilingual Education

• Initial instruction in the student's primary language with gradual transition to English
• Goal is to reclassify students as quickly as possible
• Typically available in Spanish and sometimes other languages

Dual-Language Immersion (DLI)

• Instruction in two languages (e.g., English and Spanish)
• Goal is biliteracy — proficiency in both languages
• Open to both EL and English-only students
• Models include 90/10, 80/20, or 50/50 language allocation

Heritage/Indigenous Language Programs

• Designed to preserve and develop heritage or indigenous languages
• May be requested by parents or community under EC §311

Parent Request Process (EC §311)

Parents of 20+ students at a school (or 30+ in a district) may request:

• A specific language acquisition program not currently offered
• The school/district must respond and consider establishing the program
• The request triggers a process of community engagement and feasibility assessment

Dean/Counselor Considerations

1. Know your school's program — Understand which EL program model(s) your school offers
2. Support student placement — Ensure ELs are placed in the appropriate program
3. Advocate for access — ELs should not be excluded from honors, AP, or elective courses
4. Understand scheduling — ELD requirements must fit within the student's schedule without displacing core courses
5. Inform families — Help parents understand available program options