English Learner Services

The video below describes the process and requirements for writing a district or program plan for English Learners.

Before you watch the video, you can download the template with resources, provided in the button below and referenced throughout the video. You may also wish to reference your own district or program English Learner Plan as you watch.

Q: What about grading and report cards for English Learners?

A: Grading of English Learners - Both the sending LEA and AEDY Program should have a section included in their local grading policy that specifically addresses grading procedures for English Learners. The sending LEA and AEDY program must utilize the same grading system for English Learns in content courses as they do for all students (e.g. pass/fail is inappropriate for English Learners if other students receive a letter grade).  

For English Language Development courses or instructional periods taught by a licensed English as a Second Language teacher in an all-English Learner setting, any grading system that meaningfully conveys information about progress and/or achievement may be used. In addition to the information that is provided to all students, the sending LEA and AEDY program must communicate information related to English Language proficiency and/or progress to parents at least annually.

Report Cards/Progress Reports - LEAs may utilize the report card/progres report to communicate English Language Development information to parents of English Learners or they may utilize a separate communication mechanism. If an LEA chooses to include English Language Development information on the report card, then it must ensure that the information provided is understandable and useful to engage parents in the education of their children.

Q: Who should have an English Learner Plan on file?

A: Everyone! All sending LEAs and AEDY Programs are required to have a LEA- or program-specific English Learner plan.

Q: If our AEDY program contracts with an Intermediate Unit or neighboring LEA to provide the English as a Second Language certified teacher, should we use their English Learner Plan?

A: No - every program must have their own program-specific English Learner Plan. However, in this case, the English Learner plan would include information detailing how these parties will work together to provide services.

Q: If our sending LEA contracts with an Intermediate Unit or neighboring LEA to provide the English as a Second Language certified teacher, should we use their English Learner Plan?

A: No - every LEA must have their own LEA-specific English Learner Plan. However, in this case, the English Learner plan would include information detailing how these parties will work together to provide services.

Q: If we send to an AEDY program that provides the English as a Second Language certified teacher, should we use the program's English Learner plan?

A: No - every LEA must have their own LEA-specific English Learner Plan. In this case, the LEA's English Learner plan should detail how the LEA and program will work together to provide services.

Q: If our LEA already has an English Learner plan, can we use that?

A: Yes! Check to make sure your English Learner plan covers all the required components and make any edits necessary before submitting. Consider adding a section on English Learner students in AEDY placements before you submit.