ESL / ELL Initial Identification

ESL / ELL Initial Identification

To the parents of ______DATE: ______

North Carolina State policy states that students whose primary language is not English will be administered an English language proficiency test, and parents may not refuse testing. The primary language of the student is determined using the Home Language Survey that is completed during the enrollment process. Currently the State of North Carolina uses the WIDA ACCESS Placement Test (W-APT) to identify limited English proficient (LEP) students by assessing English proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. All identified LEP students are required to be re-assessed annually on the ACCESS Proficiency Test. Results of these annual assessments determine future eligibility for support through the ESL / ELL program.

Your child’s W-APT results are indicated below.

Kindergarten and First Semester 1st Grade

Date of
W-APT / Listening and Speaking / Reading / Writing
Raw Score
Proficiency Level/
Skill Descriptor

Second Semester 1st Grade and Grades 2 through 12

Date of
W-APT / Speaking / Listening / Reading / Writing
Raw Score
Proficiency Level

ESL Program Eligibility:

____ Based on your child’s W-APT scores,he / she is identified as ESL / ELL and will be provided a continuum of services for the 2015 - 16 school year to promote language development in English.

____ Based on your child’s W-APT scores, he / she is not identified as ESL / ELLand will not receive services through the ELL program.

Program Descriptions:

Teachers of LEP students provide a variety of specialized services until students demonstrate listening, speaking, reading, and writing proficiency in English that is sufficient to allow them to succeed academically in the regular classroom. Instruction is provided in English by teachers using the WIDA Standards. The district utilizes pull out individualized instruction services by ELL trained staff as well as supportive and extended services through co-teaching by the ELL teacher and classroom teacher. In addition, instructional support through special technology programs is provide to students to gain additional exposure to the English language.

Exit Procedures:

Our goal is to exit students from LEP identification within five years. Parents are notified when students exit LEP identification. Our goal is for 100% of our LEP students to graduate.

Parent(s) Rights:

You have the right to make decisions about your child’s education. If your child qualifies for ELL services, you have the right to request transportation to the assigned school where Extensive LEP Services are provided or remain at your home school. You have the right to decline to enroll your child at a school where Extensive Service ESL program. If this decision is made, supportive, transitional, and extended services will be provided through the ESL teacher as well as the classroom teacher at the child’s home school without pullout instruction.If you choose to remain at your home school, the amount of service may be limited and provided as a support service. If you have any questions or concerns about this English language instruction plan, please contact______at ______.

Sincerely,

Michael Sands

Director of ESL / ELL Services