Embedded Files
Belief: Multilingualism is an asset. We celebrate diversity and welcome every culture with open arms.
Value: We value our diverse student body and the unique perspectives it brings to our school community.
In District 118, we offer three programs for multilingual students:
Full-Time Bilingual Education Program (FT-TBE): Our One-Way Dual Language program for Spanish speakers. The primary goal is biliteracy, with a secondary goal of English language development. Students focus initially on building academic skills in Spanish, gradually expanding their English language skills as they progress through grade levels.
Part-Time Bilingual Education Program (PT-TBE): Designed for Spanish speakers placed in general English-speaking classrooms. These students receive targeted bilingual support while completing their primary academic instruction in English.
Transitional Program of Instruction (TPI): Our English support program for students whose native language is neither English nor Spanish. Students receive specialized instruction to develop their English language skills, helping them navigate classroom academic demands.
Legal Rights & Equal Access
Legal Rights & Equal Access
Illinois and federal laws guarantee every student equal access to a quality public education, along with full access to district programs and resources.
Equal Educational Access: Immigrant and undocumented students are legally entitled to the same free, public K–12 education as U.S. citizens and permanent residents (up to age 21).
Supreme Court Protections: Per the U.S. Supreme Court decision (Plyler v. Doe), school districts cannot deny children access to public education based on their immigration status.
Identification & Screening for ELL Services
Identification & Screening for ELL Services
Identification
Identification
During enrollment, all new families complete a Home Language Survey. If a parent or legal guardian answers "Yes" to either of the two survey questions, the student is scheduled for language screening to determine eligibility for English Language Learner (ELL) services.
Screening
Screening
Students are evaluated using state-approved assessment tools based on their grade level:
Grade Level: Assessment Tool
Preschool: Pre-IPT
Kindergarten & Early 1st Grade: WIDA Screener for Kindergarten
2nd Half of 1st Grade – 12th Grade: WIDA Screener (Online)
Annual Assessment
Annual Assessment
All qualifying ELL students in grades K–12 take the WIDA ACCESS test annually to monitor their English language proficiency and progress.
Page updated
Report abuse