All students in LPS are English Learners. However, students that are culturally and/or linguistically diverse are often referred to English Language Learners, or ELLs / EL. ELs eligible for additional federal support speak and/or have another language/culture present in their home. ELs in LPS are at various levels of English Language Proficiency.
- Active ESOL: These students receive linguistic and cultural support through one or more modalities: An ESOL-endorsed teacher, an ESOL specialist, an ESOL para-educator, or another staff member working on their ESOL endorsement. As these students actively receive ESOL supports, they have goals, or Individual Language Plans [ILP], written to monitor their growth and are assessed annually with the state ESOL assessment.
- Transition ESOL: An EL has this status for one year after they pass the Kansas state ESOL assessment. They may receive ESOL support and do have an Individual Language Plan [ILP], but do not have to participate in the state ESOL assessment.
- Monitor ESOL: An EL has this status for two years following their ESOL Transition status. ELs with this status do have an Individual Language Plan [ILP], but do not receive ESOL supports or participate in the state ESOL assessment.
- Decline ESOL: These students are culturally and linguistically diverse; however, have currently declined ESOL supports. They do not have an ILP or receive ESOL support, but do have to participate in the state ESOL assessment annually.