The goal for TCUSD EL Program is to enable students to acquire communicative competence in English. Both small group and whole group instruction underscored by EL and SDAIE (Specially Designed Academic Instruction in English) strengthen the ability of the student to become an active listener, speak fluently, read efficiently, and write effectively. Students are tested annually to determine the level of mastery of the English language through the State mandated English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC). Results on this test influence the placement and re-designation of EL students.
Staff
Stacy Ayers
Director of State and Federal Programs and Special Projects sayers@tcusd.net (626) 548-5025
ELPAC
The initial ELPAC testing window begins July 1 for students new to the country while the annual summative ELPAC window opens Feb 1 of year year.
EL COORDINATORS
EL coordinators provide additional support (beyond EL classroom instruction provided by certificated staff) to our English learners through the lens of RtI-Response to Intervention. EL coordinators are responsible for administering the ELPAC within 30 days for new student enrollment (July 1 - June 30) as well as conducting annual ELPAC testing during the state window of February 1 - May 31, 2019. They also work in tandem with their site administrators in tracking and monitoring student language acquisition progress for redesignation
English Learner Advantage
Being multilingual is crucial in creating well- rounded global citizens and lifelong learners. Students coming to Temple City Unified School District speaking another language will have the benefit of improving their English language skills while honoring their home language and culture. By retaining their home language and developing their English language skills, students are being prepared to compete on a global scale and make TCUSD a great place to be.
What to expect
Students who qualify as an English Learner (EL) based on the results of their Initial ELPAC test will be given additional opportunities to develop their English language skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students may receive additional support through the use of intensive classes and one-on-one instruction. Students will have the same access to grade- level appropriate materials and experiences as their peers. Progress will be documented twice a year through a standardized measure, like I- Ready, and through the annual Summative ELPAC. Once students have met the District standards to indicate fluency, they will be Reclassified (RFEP). This is expected to take an average of 4 years. After a student has been moved to RFEP, they will be monitored for two years to ensure they are continuing to be successful.
*Please note, it is very important to have updated parent contact information during this process. Many steps in this process require signatures and parent consent. Delays in parent contact may result in prolonged testing.
Common Abbreviations
EL- English Learner. A student who has demonstrated the need for English language development services based on the Initial ELPAC assessment. Student’s language progress will be monitored and additional services administered as needed.
ELPAC- English Language Proficiency Assessment of California. A standardized test given to EL students. The Initial ELPAC is only given within 30 days of enrollment to determine if a student qualifies for EL services. The Summative ELPAC is given annually in the Spring until a student is RFEP.
IFEP- Initially Fluent English Proficient. A designation given to students who score “fluent” on the Initial ELPAC assessment. Students do not qualify for the EL program and do not require further monitoring.
RFEP- Reclassified Fluent English Proficient. A designation given to students who have progressed through the EL program and have demonstrated English fluency. Students are no longer required to test, but will be monitored for 2 years to ensure progress. A parent conference and signature are required to reach this classification.