Identification of “English learners”
The identification of English learners is based on the following required steps.
Step 1: Completion of Wisconsin’s Home Language Survey
The Home Language Survey is a component of the enrollment process for all students in Wisconsin. The standardized form should be maintained in a student’s academic record. This survey helps identify whether or not the exposure or use of languages other than English in a student’s life could rise to a level where their development of their English language proficiency may not be sufficient to succeed academically. Results of the survey indicate whether or not a student should be administered the state-approved English language proficiency screener.
The majority of parents will only answer 2-3 questions. They include:
- Was the first language used by the student English?
- What at home does this student hear or use a language other than English more than half of the time?
- When interacting with parents or guardians, does this student hear or use a language other than English more than half of the time?
Step 2: Administration of the English Language Proficiency Screener
Districts must administer a state-approved language proficiency screener if the Home Language Survey indicates that a student should be screened. This is given to students in K-12th grade. At this time, there is not a valid assessment for students until the August before their kindergarten year of school.
Results of the screener will determine whether a student is considered proficient in English, borderline English proficient or not proficient. The final determination of EL status may include both the language screener as well as observational data.
Step 3: Parental Contact and Approval or Refusal of Services
Parents will be contacted with a final determination of program eligibility following the screener and may approve or refuse some or all program services offered at any time.
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