Overview

English Language Acquisition (ELA) is an educational approach in which English Language Learners (ELL) are instructed in the development of the English language.

Instruction is based on language development standards typically involving little to no use of the native language, and is usually taught during specific school periods. For the rest of the school day, students may be placed in core content classes with language development supports to reach Colorado Academic Standards, or students may be enrolled in a school with a bilingual program.

Identifying English Language Learners is required

The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights requires a school district to identify all Limited English Proficient (LEP) students and to provide them with equal and meaningful access to the education offered by the district.

The Colorado English Language Proficiency Act (ELPA) adds strength to federal requirements. Under ELPA, districts must use parent checklists to identify potential LEP students. It is important to remember that all federal and state funding relies on accurate identification, assessment, and provision of services to LEP students.

How are English Language Learners identified?

First, parents complete a "Home Language Survey" (filled out at the time of school registration). If parents document that the student's first language is not English, a need for testing is identified. An ELA staff member will then assess the student's language development. If the student qualifies for ELA services, the student is placed into the program and all parties are notified.

There are currently 73 languages represented in the student population of Poudre School District, including current English Language Acquisition (ELA) students and those who have successfully completed the program.  Of the 25,035 students currently enrolled in PSD, 1,985 (7.9%) are considered active ELA students.

ELA sites and Magnet sites in PSD:

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