All applicants to LMACS complete a Home Language Survey (HLS) as part of the enrollment process. If responses suggest that the student may be an English Learner (EL), the intake staff must forward the HLS to the District EL Coordinator within 5 school days. The Registrar also requests prior school records and notifies the EL Coordinator if any previous EL testing data (e.g., ACCESS for ELLs) are available.
Students identified as potential ELs are assessed using the WIDA Screener, the state-mandated English language proficiency assessment for grades 1–12. A student who scores below an overall composite proficiency level of 4.5 or below a literacy composite (reading and writing) of 4.0 is identified as an English Learner and is eligible for English Language Development (ELD) services through a Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) program.
This assessment and placement process must be completed within 30 days of the student’s enrollment.
Upon identification:
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The EL Coordinator contacts the student’s parent/guardian to:
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Establish a supportive relationship.
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Share information about available EL programs.
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Explain school expectations, policies, and procedures.
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Offer assistance with locating community resources for cultural and language adjustment.
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Review the district’s EL procedures and offer the family the right to opt out of EL services.
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The Registrar is notified so that:
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The student is reported to the state as an English Learner.
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Any additional prior EL assessment scores (e.g., ACCESS for ELLs) can be requested if not already received.
Staff are informed of the student’s EL status so that:
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Appropriate placement decisions can be made when scheduling.
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Teachers are aware of the student’s language development needs.
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Observation and instructional practices can be tailored accordingly.