The following collection offers foundational planning tools and instructional resources to support effective English language development and programming.
EL Programs
EL Program Plan (LAU Plan)
A strong EL program starts with a well-developed EL Program Plan (LAU Plan). The resources below include tools and guidance to help districts develop and maintain a current, accurate LAU Plan.
Federal and State guidance require districts to conduct an annual evaluation of their English Learner (EL) program to determine whether services are effectively supporting students’ academic achievement and English language development. This review, is typically conducted after WIDA ACCESS and state assessment results are available, it helps districts analyze program implementation, examine student outcomes, and identify priorities for continuous improvement. The following resorces support this work.
EL Toolkit
Guidance for conducting an EL program evaluation.
South Dakota Program Evaluation Tool
Evaluation Tool aligned with the five essential components of an EL Program and Services.
BHSSC Evaluation Services
A facilitated, participatory evaluation process that combines data analysis with stakeholder feedback.
Language Acquisition Plans
Tools to align services, language goals, instructional supports, and progress monitoring.
Language Proficiency Levels
WIDA-aligned descriptors that clarify proficiency expectations across classrooms.
WIDA ACCESS and Language Development Resources
Use the following resources to interpret ACCESS results, plan instruction, and monitor progress.