Nauset Public Schools is committed to supporting every English Learner (EL) in our district. Below is an overview of the processes we follow, based on the guidance provided by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

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Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Guidance Documents and Laws on English Learners

When a student enrolls in Nauset Public Schools, families complete a Home Language Survey. If another language is spoken at home, the student will be assessed using a language proficiency screening tool, such as the WIDA Screener, to determine if they qualify as an English Learner (EL). This process ensures that students who need additional language support are identified early.

Once a student is identified as an English learner (EL), they will be placed in our Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) program. This program is designed to meet the linguistic and academic needs of our EL students.

In the SEI Program:

• Students receive specialized instruction tailored to their English proficiency level.

• The program focuses on helping students develop their English language skills while also engaging with the standard curriculum.

• Placement in the SEI program aims to support students in achieving both English proficiency and academic success.

Parent Opt-Out Rights:

• Parents or legal guardians have the right to request that their child be removed from the SEI program at any time.

• If you choose to opt out, your child will be placed in a regular English language classroom with an SEI-endorsed teacher, and the district will provide necessary support to help your child succeed.

• Parents should review their decision to opt out annually and submit a new request for each academic year.

To learn more about our SEI program, click here.

Some English Learners may also qualify for special education services. Nauset Public Schools ensures that these students receive all the services and support they are eligible for, integrating language development with special education programming to meet their individual needs.

English Learners at Nauset Public Schools have equal access to all academic and extracurricular programs. Their level of English proficiency does not limit their participation in any school activities, including advanced courses, arts programs, athletics, and more.

Nauset Public Schools is committed to regularly monitoring the progress of both current and former English Learners. Through a combination of assessments, teacher observations, and family communication, we ensure that all students are on track to achieve their educational goals.

English Learners are assessed annually using ACCESS for ELLs to measure their proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking English. The results help us understand their progress and guide decisions about their instructional needs. In addition to ACCESS for ELLs, Nauset Public Schools may use interim and formative assessments to monitor ongoing progress in English language acquisition.

What is Reclassification? Reclassification is the process of transitioning a student from English learner (EL) status to former English learner (FEL) status. This decision is based on the student's demonstrated proficiency in English and their academic performance.

Criteria for Reclassification:

• ACCESS for ELLs Scores: To be considered for reclassification, students must achieve an overall score of 4.2 or higher and a composite literacy score of 3.9 or higher on the ACCESS for ELLs assessment.

• Evaluation: The school-based team reviews test scores and other relevant data to determine if the student has reached the required level of English proficiency.

Process:

• Annual Assessment: Students' English proficiency is assessed annually through the ACCESS for ELLs test.

• Team Review: A team of educators reviews assessment results, academic records, and other relevant information to make reclassification decisions.

• Notification: Parents will be informed if their child is reclassified from EL to FEL. The student’s records will be updated, and the change will be reflected in the district’s reports.

Post-Reclassification Monitoring:

• Ongoing Support: Even after reclassification, former ELs are monitored for four years to ensure they continue to perform well academically and maintain English proficiency.

• Support Systems: Schools will provide additional support if needed and ensure that FELs have access to all educational opportunities.