Providing Services to MLs

PSDMs are the models of instruction for MLs. Since the number of students may vary in districts across the state, the state permits districts to choose the appropriate PSDM(s) for each ML from the SCDE-approved list. In addition, PSDMs for MLs must address the following two requirements based on the U.S. Department of Education’s EL Toolkit: (1) the provision of evidence-based English language acquisition services, and (2) the provision of effective participation of MLs in all district academic and special programs. More information can be found in Chapter 2 of the EL Toolkit.

An array of educational professionals can serve students through a variety of PSDMs in collaboration with MLP staff. Multilingual Learner Program Teams (MLPT) should be formed to make decisions about PSDMs for MLs. See the PSDM Chart for descriptions and suggestions regarding each PSDM.

One of the purposes of the MLP is to help ensure that MLs develop high levels of academic attainment in English and meet the challenging state educational content that all students are expected to meet. Therefore, the English proficiency level of the student determines the MLP services that should be provided to MLs in the least restrictive age-appropriate environment immediately.

All identified MLs must begin receiving English language instruction within 30 calendar days of the beginning of the school year. If a student enters at a later start date, the student must be identified, placed, and receive services within 14 calendar days of enrollment.