2110P: Multilingual Education Program
- 2000: Instructional
Last Revised: Aug. 2014
The following procedures are instituted for purposes of implementing a Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program.
A Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program, as defined by state law, means a system of instruction which uses two languages, one of which is English, to build upon and expand language skills to enable the student to achieve competency in English. In those cases where the use of two languages is not practicable, appropriate instruction for English language learners may be provided primarily in English.
The district will provide English language learners appropriate core academic instruction in addition to language instruction. The district’s Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program is intended to supplement core academic instruction.
Program Application and Description
Annually, and prior to August 1 of each year, the district will submit an application to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction requesting funding to support its Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program. In its application, the district will provide a description of its research-based program models including staffing and implementation strategies.
Eligibility
At the time of registration, the parents/guardians of each student will be asked to complete a home language survey which identifies the child’s primary language. Students that indicate on the home language survey a primary language other than English will be assessed within ten school days of enrollment and attendance using the Washington Language Proficiency Placement Test to determine eligibility for the Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program. Any student who scores a level one (beginning/advanced beginning), two (intermediate) or three (advanced) will be eligible for the program. Students who score at level four (transitional) are not eligible for the program. Staff will determine the appropriate instructional program for each eligible student.
Parent/Guardian Notification
Parents/guardians will be notified, in writing, of their child’s initial eligibility and notified annually of their child’s continuing eligibility for the Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program. At a minimum the parent/guardian notification will contain:
- How the child’s eligibility was determined and the child’s current level of English proficiency;
- A description of the district’s program and how it will meet the child’s educational needs;
- The specific exit requirements for the program; and
- Information on the parent’s right to refuse services. Communication with parents/guardians should be provided, when feasible, in the parent’s primary language.
Continued Eligibility/Annual Assessment
Each eligible English language learner must be assessed annually, using the state-approved language proficiency test to determine continued eligibility. Students remain eligible until they reach level four (transitional) on the annual state-approved language proficiency test.
Expected Graduation Year
For eligible English language learners who require extended time to meet high school graduation requirements, the district may set an expected graduation year beyond the typical four years of high school or through the school year in which a student turns 21.
Record Keeping and Documentation
The district will maintain records of eligible students and comply with state reporting requirements. Original documents will be kept in the student’s cumulative folder and copies will be kept in the program folder, if applicable. These documents include the home language survey, parent notification letters, parental waiver (if applicable), and language proficiency test assessment data.
Communication Plan
The district will develop and provide to parents/guardians, district staff and interested stakeholders a user friendly description of the Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program offered in the district. The description will include the process for identifying and serving English language learners and provide contact information for the district’s transitional bilingual instruction program manager.
Report to the Board
Annually, and prior to the board of directors’ program approval, the superintendent or designee will report on the status of the district’s Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program.