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EL Assessment

ASSESSMENT CAUTION

Caution should also be exercised during the assessment process, since many EL students are mistakenly referred to Special Education Services because of their language deficiencies. It is important to remember that lack of English proficiency does not in itself qualify a student for Special Education services. A student who lacks English language skills is different from an individual with a language disorder. A student from another culture may have learning styles and concepts of appropriate school and classroom behavior that, while they may differ from the American mainstream perception of the same, may be appropriate to that student's cultural background and experiences.

STEPS IN THE ASSESSMENT PROCESS

  1. Within 30 days from the beginning of the year or 10 days after enrollment later in the year, students who are identified with a Home Language Other Than English (PHLOTE) on the Home Language Survey must be assessed to determine if they are EL.
  2. The EL tutor will assess each student using the LAS Links Placement Test, which examines a student's language skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Students who do not score in the Proficient range according to the LAS Links Interpretation Guide will be identified as EL. In the case of preschool and kindergarten students, the Pre-IPT Oral English test will be administered.
  3. Students scoring in the Approaching Proficient range will also be assessed using the LAS Links Assessment test in order to gather more detailed data.
  4. Parents are notified in writing of the testing results with a copy also placed in the student's permanent record file. The student's classroom teacher is also notified of the EL placement. Forms: Initial Placement Results; Teacher Notification
  5. A record of all test results will be maintained in the program database and copies of all tests and results will be kept in student files.

  6. If a student is determined to be Limited English Proficient (EL), a letter is sent to the parents describing the assessment information, the services to be provided, and the parents right to refuse services. To the extent practical, written documentation and/or oral interpretation are provided to parents in a language they can understand. Form: Notification of Placement / Tested: Does not qualify

  7. Students determined not to be EL require no special services. Parents are notified in writing of the testing results with a copy also placed in the student's permanent record file.
  8. Parents may decline EL services for their child by exercising the option provided on the Notification of Placement form.

  9. Parents may reconsider their option to accept services at a later date. District personnel may also request that parents reconsider tutoring services based on a student's academic performance. Form: Reconsider EL Services