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What is reclassification and why is it important?
Reclassification can be thought of as an ELL’s language graduation. It is the process for determining that an English Language Learner (ELL) has become Fluent English Proficient (RFEP). It is a major milestone and accomplishment for all ELLs. ELLs are reclassified based on multiple criteria.
Reclassification serves as an indicator of a district's or school's:
Overall ELL language development and academic achievement.
Overall effectiveness of Designated and Integrated English Language Development instruction.
Overall effectiveness of specific approaches designed for ELLs and ELL subgroups (e.g. extended after school programs for newcomer students).
Reclassification data, both of students who are eligible and those who are not, should help to guide placement, provide appropriate levels of support, and monitor progress against key metrics at each site. In addition, research indicates that ELLs who show the language proficiency needed to reclassify within 6 years in US schools have better long-term academic outcomes. Conversely, students not reclassified within six years (Long-term ELLs or LTELs) are disproportionately at risk on all academic measures including reading growth, A-G completion and graduation rates.
What is the criteria for reclassification?
See the Reclassification Overview for 2025-26 for more detailed information.
1. Language
Proficiency
Overall Performance Level of a 4 on the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC)
2. Basic Skills
(Reading Level)
Meet or exceed grade level reading goal or 2.5 or above on Smarter Balanced Assessment in English Language Arts.
3. Teacher Evaluation
A 3 or higher in ELA on standards-based report or C- or higher in ELA (or B- or higher if only ELD course grade available) can be used if teacher recommendation cannot be collected.
4. Parent
Consultation
OUSD is required to show evidence that parents have been consulted before reclassification is complete.
What about ELLs with IEPs?
ELL with IEPs, or identified students can reclassification through one of three pathways as described in detail here and summarized below:
Pathway #1: The Standard Process: All ELLs including ELLs with IEPs can reclassify using the standard process and criteria.
Pathway #2: Individualized Reclassification (IR) : While students will need to meet a qualifying ELPAC score, IEPs may use alternative evidence to demonstrate proficiency in basic skills. The timeline will mirror the overall timeline, and will ONLY accept this online Informed K12 form..
Pathway #3: Alternate Reclassification: Students who present severe cognitive disabilities may qualify for ALT assessments, including the ALT-ELPAC. In this case, students will need to score an ALT-ELPAC score of 3 and a CAA score of meet literacy-related IEP goals.
Learn more here: slides | screencast overview on the 3 pathways to reclassification | screencast on how to complete the IR form.
What to know in 2024-25
i-Ready assessment will be used for 1-12 grade criteria of basic skills. Reading level will be measured using i-Ready only now that RI has been discontinued.
SBAC can demonstrate Basic Skills in English. 2.5 or above on Smarter Balanced Assessment in English Language Arts.
Active teacher recommendation will be sought for all reclassifications. In each reclassification cycle, teachers will be asked for their recommendation for students meeting the assessment criteria for reclassification (ELPAC and reading test).
In the event that no positive or negative teacher recommendation can be obtained, the student will reclassify if their report card grades meet criteria below.
We have adjusted the reclassification process for ELLs with IEPs to align with new state guidelines. See here and above to learn about the three pathways to reclassification for our dual-identifed students.
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