At the time of enrollment, families are to complete the Home Language Survey. If parents or legal guardians answered “yes” to one of the two questions in the Home Language Survey, the student will then be screened using the Pre-IBT - Oral to determine the level of English proficiency.
If a child is determined to be limited in English proficiency, they will receive instruction by the properly certified preschool teacher or by a pull-out or push-in teacher with proper certification, depending on the resources provided by each individual district. A notification letter will be provided to parents within 30 days after the beginning of the school year or within 14 days after enrollment if enrollment occurs mid-year. This letter will explain recommendations and services, as well as program descriptions. Parents can accept or refuse ELL placement recommendations. If a parent chooses to refuse the ELL services, a waiver form must be signed. Regardless of participation in the programs, students identified as ELL will participate in all assessments required by ISBE.
English Learners in a full-time TBE program (20 or more EL students) are provided instruction in the native language and English by teachers that are properly licensed and hold the bilingual endorsement or the district has submitted the plan required under 23 ILCS 228.35 (c)3.
English Learners in TBE or TPI program are provided instruction in English as a second language by teachers holding the ESL or ENL endorsement or the district has submitted the plan required under 23 ILCS 228.35 (c)3.