English Learners

An EL is a student:

Who is aged 3-21;
Who is enrolled or preparing to enroll in an elementary or secondary school;
Who was not born in the United States OR whose native language is a language other than English; and
Where difficulties in speaking, reading, writing, or understanding the English language may be sufficient to deny the individual:
- The ability in meeting the State’s proficient level of achievement on State assessments described in section 1111(b)(3)
- The ability to successfully achieve in classrooms where the language of instruction is English; and
- The opportunity to participate fully in society.

Program funds must be used to:

upgrade program objectives and effective instructional strategies;
improve the instructional program for ELs by identifying, acquiring, and upgrading curricula, instructional materials, educational software, and assessment procedures;
provide tutorials and academic or vocational education for ELs;
develop and implement elementary school or secondary school language instruction educational programs that are coordinated with other relevant programs and services;
improve the English proficiency and academic achievement of ELs;
provide community participation programs, family literacy services, and parent outreach and training activities to ELs and their families;
assist parents in helping their children to improve their academic achievement and become active participants in the education of their children; and
improve the instruction of ELs by providing for the acquisition or development of educational technology or instructional materials and access to electronic networks for materials, training, and communication.