ELL - English Language Learners
Overview
The English Language Learner (ELL) program is for students whose native language is not English. The program provides supplemental services to help ELL students meet state learning standards and become proficient in English in an environment where language and cultural assets are recognized as valuable resources for learning.
Program Eligibility
The English Language Proficiency Assessment for the 21st Century (ELPA21) is the assessment used in Washington State to determine a student's eligibility for ELL services. When a student first enrolls in school, parents complete a Home Language Survey. Available in over 35 languages, this survey asks what language is spoken in the home, and what is the child's first language. If the answer to either question is a language other than English, the student takes a brief assessment, the ELPA21 Screener, which determines a student's skill in listening to, speaking, reading, and writing English. If the student scores at a level 1 (Emerging) or 2 (Progressing), the student qualifies for ELL services. If the student scores a level 3 (Proficient), the student does not qualify for ELL support.
Annual State Test (ELPA21)
ELL students are re-assessed on the annual ELPA21 each spring. Their scores determine whether they continue to qualify for service in the following year. Students continue to qualify for ELL support as long as they score at a level 1 (Emerging) or
2 (Progressing). Once a student scores at a level 3 (Proficient), the student exits from the program and no longer receives direct ELL support. However, his or her progress is monitored for two additional years, and support is provided as needed
if the student struggles academically in his or her classes.
An ELPA21 informational brochure for families is available in (English) and (Spanish).
The ELPA21 score report is available in 10 languages. It explains what thedifferent performance levels mean and helps to understand the scoring of the annual ELPA21 test.
For more information about the ELPA21, see the ELPA21 website: http://www.elpa21.org/.
Interpreter and Translation Services
If you need help with an interpreter or translations, please let us know. We will make every effort to help you feel involved and understand how your child is doing in school. The Napavine School District uses a service called Language Link. They provide over-the-phone interpreter services to us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and in over 240 languages.
If you need school registration or enrollment information in a different language, we can provide forms in multiple languages.
Also, you may use the form, Effective Communication, available in (English) and (Spanish) to request services.
Contact our ELL Coordinator, Jody Low, at 360-262-3345 or email her at jlow@napavineschools.org for more information or questions regarding interpreter or translation services.
Napavine Elementary School was recognized with the Closing the Achievement Gap: Hispanic Students Achievement Award for the 2016 academic school year. This award specifically acknowledged the higher test scores over the last three years of Napavine's Hispanic students.
Washington (and Napavine School District) Value Bilingualism
Your efforts to help your children learn their first language well are important. Continue speaking, telling and reading stories, listening to music, and learning new things with your children in your language.
Learning English in Washington Schools:
Flyer is available in over 20 languages.
Speak Your Language! Bilingualism is a skill and an asset.
Flyer is available in over 20 languages.
What are the Benefits of Learning Two Languages?
Knowing more than one language is a skill to be valued and encouraged.
Studies have shown that when children continue to learn their native language, this does not interfere with learning English – it makes the process easier!
Other Resources and Websites
For Complete Information on Washington's Migrant and Bilingual Education Program, go to State of Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).
