The English Learner (EL) program helps students whose first language is not English develop the language skills needed for school success. 
It includes: 

• English language instruction 
• Academic support in core subjects 
• Culturally responsive teaching [nd.gov] 

 Who qualifies for EL services?

Students may qualify if they: 

• Speak or hear a language other than English at home 
• Score below proficiency on a language assessment  

How are students identified?

All new families complete a Home Language Survey when enrolling in DPS. 
If another language is listed: 

• The school reviews the information 
• The student takes an English test (WIDA Screener) 
• The school determines eligibility for EL services [wida.wisc.edu] 

Are EL students required to take tests?

Yes. EL students must: 

• Take the WIDA ACCESS English proficiency test every year 
• Participate in state academic testing (with some limited exemptions) [wida.wisc.edu] 

How long will my child be in the EL program?

There is no fixed timeline: 

• Some students exit within months 
• Others may take several years (often 5–8 years depending on progress)  

How does my child exit the EL program? 
Students exit when they reach English proficiency, based on test scores such as WIDA ACCESS.  

After exiting:

• Schools monitor students for at least 2 years to ensure success  
• Additional Exit Pathways are listed in DPS EL Handbook. 

What services/accommodations will my child receive?

EL services depend on each individual student. Once the student goes through the screening process, the EL teachers will be able to identify what services the student qualifies for. Examples of accommodations include: 

• Small group English instruction 
• In-class support (push-in or co-teaching) 
• Modified assignments and supports 
• An Individual Language Plan (ILP) to track progress  
• All services will be listed in the students ILP. 

Does the school provide translation or interpreter services?

Yes. Schools must provide language support to families.
You have the right to: 

• Receive important school information in your preferred language 
• Request an interpreter for:  
• Parent-teacher conferences 
• Meetings (ILP, special education, discipline, etc.) 
• Phone calls or school events 
• This support is provided at no cost to families under federal civil rights law. 
• Schools typically provide: 
• Written translations of key documents (when available) 
• On-demand phone or in-person interpreters 

What are schools required to provide? 
North Dakota requires districts to: 

• Use research-based language instruction 
• Employ licensed EL teachers 
• Provide equal access to curriculum and facilities 
• Monitor and evaluate student progress  

Who is the EL contact at my child’s school?
Each school/district has: 

• An EL Teacher (works with your child) 
• An EL Coordinator or Director (oversees the program) 
• Families should contact: 
• The school office or district website for the name and contact information of the EL staff 
• Your child’s EL teacher for updates on progress and services 
• Districts are required to designate qualified staff to oversee EL programs and services. To communicate with your child’s EL teacher, contact their current school or the Central Administration Office to speak with the EL Administrative Assistant.

Who can I contact with questions? 

• Your child’s EL teacher 
• School principal or counselor 
• District EL coordinator/director 
• District EL Administrative Assistant 
• North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) 

As a parent/guardian of an EL student, you have the right to: 

•  Be informed 
  • Receive notification if your child is identified as an English learner 
  • Get test results and program placement information 
  • Understand how your child’s program works 
•  Participate in decisions 
  • Be involved in creating your child’s Individual Language Plan (ILP) 
  • Attend meetings with interpretation support 
• Receive communication in your language 
  • Ask for translated documents or interpreters 
  • Communicate with the school in a language you understand 
• Accept or decline services 
  • You may accept or decline EL services for your child 
  • If you decline, the school must still ensure your child can access the curriculum  

Our district proudly supports the North Dakota Seal of Biliteracy. This is an honor awarded to graduating high school students who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English and one or more additional world languages. It is a fantastic achievement to add to college applications and employment resumes.