What is ELL?

English Language Learner(ELL) is a K-12 program that teaches the English

language to students whose native language is not English. Students are taught
by licensed ELL teachers using methodology similar to that of teaching a foreign
language to a native English speaker.

Which students qualify for ELL classes?

Any student qualifies for the ELL program if he/she meets any of the following
criteria:

● The student's first language is not English.

● The student comes from a home where the language spoken is not
English.

How are ELL classes organized?

Elementary ELL:

In K-5 schools, ELL uses either a pull-out or a push-in model of instruction.

English Language Learning students leave their mainstream classroom to spend
a period of time each day receiving ELL instruction. The amount of time a
student receives English instruction depends on his/her level of language
proficiency. Instruction is focused on English language development with
emphasis on increasing vocabulary, reading comprehension and strategies,
writing skills, and cultural understanding.

Secondary ELL:

ELL uses the pull-out model at the high school and middle school. This means
that your child will receive ELL services at a scheduled period within their school
day in an ELL classroom. At the high school level, your child will earn a credit
towards graduation for participation in this class.
When do students exit the program?

Students exit the ELL program based on ACCESS assessment criteria

determined by the Minnesota Department of Education.

ACCESS is an adaptive, computer-based test that assesses a student’s language

in the following domains: Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing

How long does a student receive ELL service?

Normally, students will learn to speak English well within 1-3 years. Academic
English, the language needed to read, write, and be successful in school, can
take 5-10 years to learn. Ongoing evaluation will determine the need for
continued support.

My child was born here. Can he/she still receive help from the ELL
teacher?

A student may receive ELL services even if he/she was born in the United States
if the student first learned a language other than English and/or comes from a
home where a language other than English is usually spoken. The student must
qualify for ELL services based on the district's language assessments.

My child already speaks English well. Why is he/she receiving ELL

service?

Your child might be an advanced level ELL student. Advanced students are often
able to speak English well, but they are still learning the English needed to read
and write at grade level.

Can I refuse ELL support for my child?

You may refuse ELL support for your child if you wish. You will need to contact
your child's ELL teacher and sign a form in order for ELL services to be
discontinued.