Resource Index

Research

• Understanding and Supporting Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE) in Massachusetts: A Review of Literature (2022)

  • Source: Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL) in partnership with MA DESE

• Rising Numbers, Unmet Needs: Immigrant Newcomers in Massachusetts High Schools (2022)

  • Source: Annenberg Institute at Brown University in partnership with MA DESE

Professional Learning Modules (from SupportEd)

• SLIFE Instruction Part 1: Who Are SLIFE and How Do We Build On Their Assets?

• SLIFE Instruction Part 2: How Can We Scaffold Content and Leverage Peer Learning?

• SLIFE Instruction Part 3: How Can We Collaborate to Support English Language Development, Literacy, and Content Growth?

MA DESE Tools

• SLIFE Pre-Screener

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support

  • Description: Sample template that districts can choose to adopt, adapt, or modify.

• Educational Background Review

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support

  • Description: Sample template that districts can choose to adopt, adapt, or modify. This template supports a more thorough review of a student's educational history, through records and/or interview.

• Additional Existing Student Data Form

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support

  • Description: Sample template that districts can choose to adopt, adapt, or modify. 

Other Tools & Resources

• SLIFE & Newcomer Identification Checklist

  • Source: New Bedford Public Schools (MA)

  • Description: District checklist for initial identification of both newcomers and SLIFE.

MA DESE Tools

• SLIFE Interview - Sample List of Interview Questions

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support

  • Description: This provides an extensive list of potential interview questions that districts could choose to adopt, adapt, or modify. In prioritizing the number and type of questions to use, it is important to consider the age of the student(s) and whether they will be responding on their own or with a parent or guardian's support. 

• Student Inventory: Interests, Skills, Goals 

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support

  • Description: This form provides a different example of how district/school staff could learn about a new student's interests, skills, and goals as part of the SLIFE interview process.  

Other Tools & Resources

• Interview questionnaire for Parents/Guardian

  • Source: New Bedford Public Schools (MA)

  • Description: Interview questionnaire

• Sample Parent/Guardian Interview Questions

  • Source: Minnesota Department of Education English Learner Education SLIFE Page

  • Description: Sample questions for parent interview reproduced with permission from "Meeting the Needs of Students with Limited or Interrupted Schooling" by DeCapua, Smathers & Tang. Copyright University of Michigan 2009.  

• Sample Student Interview Questions

  • Source: Minnesota Department of Education English Learner Education SLIFE Page

  • Description: Sample questions for parent interview reproduced with permission from "Meeting the Needs of Students with Limited or Interrupted Schooling" by DeCapua, Smathers & Tang. Copyright University of Michigan 2009.  

• SIFE Oral Interview Questionnaire and related Instructions and Guidance for SIFE Oral Interview Questionnaire

  • Source: NYS Department of Education

  • Description: Oral interview questionnaire used in New York state for the purpose of identifying potential SIFE/SLIFE. The included link provides instructions and guidance for administering the questionnaire. 

• Student Intake Survey

  • Source: Fremont High School Newcomer Educational Support & Transition Program (Oakland USD)

  • Description: Student interview / intake form in English, Spanish and Arabic.

• Newcomer Student Intake Form

  • Source: Oakland USD (California) Newcomer Toolkit

  • Description: Formed used for enrolling students to gather an educational history when interviewing the student. 

• Intake Questionnaires in multiple languages

  • Source: MALP (malpeducation.com)

  • Description: A interview for students about prior educational experiences in a variety of languages. 

MA DESE Tools

• Adopt, Adapt, or Develop Local Literacy and Numeracy Screening Resources

• Sample Process for In-District Development of Academic Screening Resources

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support, Appendix B. Additional Resources for Step 3, Academic Screening, pg. 74-78.

  • Description: These tools offer ideas to support local decision making about each district’s approach to literacy and numeracy screeners.   

The following optional resources are designed to be used in tandem to help educators (1) identify expected grade-level numeracy skills in relation to same-aged peers and (2) select assessment activities that can measure these skills.  

• SLIFE Numeracy Protocol

  • Source: MA DESE

  • Description: This SLIFE Numeracy Assessment Protocol accompanies the MA Math Framework Progress Chart for SLIFE. 

• Math Framework Progress Chart for SLIFE

  • Source: MA DESE

  • Description: The MA Mathematics Framework Progression Chart (grades K-8) is an interactive tool designed to help educators see how math skills progress throughout the MA math standards framework, so they can understand how foundational skills build upon each other and more easily address gaps in students' math content knowledge and skills. 

Other Tools & Resources

General

• Guidance on SLIFE Intake Assessment

  • Source: Bridges to Academic Success

  • Description: Guidance on how to assess a student's foundational literacy skills and whole linguistic repertoire for the purposes of identifying SLIFE and meeting their needs in the classroom.

Literacy and Numeracy Screening Resources (includes both literacy and numeracy) 

• Supports for English Learner Students with Limited or Inconsistent/Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE): A practical approach for Mississippi educators, pp. 22-23

• Source: Mississippi Department of Education

• Description: Pages 22–23 of Mississippi's SLIFE guidance offer suggestions for academic screeners for math, home language, science, and social studies. Appendices A–D showcase additional screener samples. 

Literacy Tools

• SLIFE Literacy Screening Protocol and Scorecard

  • Source: New Bedford Public Schools

  • Description: Protocol and scoring guide for New Bedford's SLIFE reading and writing assessment

• SLIFE Writing Assessment Prompts/Paragraph Starters

  • Source: New Bedford Public Schools (MA)

  • Description: Prompts for the SLIFE writing assessment

• Native Language Literacy Screening Tool

  • Source: Florida Department of Education

  • Description: Free screening tool for native language literacy available in twenty-nine different languages. 

• Native Language Literacy Assessment (NLLA)

  • Source: Minneapolis Public Schools and the University of Minnesota

  • Description: This test assesses students’ initial literacy skills in their native language or their language of formal schooling. Available in eight languages. 

• SIFE Writing Screener

  • Source: New York State Department of Education

  • Description: Home language writing screener used in New York state in order to get a general idea of the writing skills of potential SIFE/SLIFE

    • Translated versions in 17 languages

Math Tools

• Math Foundations Screening Assessment for SLIFE / Scorecard (Developmental Sequence)

  • Source: New Bedford Public Schools (MA)

  • Description: Math assessment screening tool and scorecard

• SLIFE Math Screener 

  • Source: Lawrence Public Schools (MA)

  • Description: Math screening tool which can be used to help identify a potential SLIFE's numeracy skills across grades K-8 and plan for instruction accordingly.

• Entry Assessment in Mathematics Evaluation (EAME)

  • Source: Fairfax County Public Schools (VA)

  • Description: Math screening tool published in 2001

• Numeracy Assessment and Monitoring tools

  • Source: Easy CBM

  • Description: Free progress measure instruments to assess and monitor skills across multiple grades (K-8). Educators need to create an account and can then access the free materials. Specifically, the math measures offer grade-aligned assessment tools with minimal-to-no language.

• SIFE Math Diagnostic

  • Source: Oakland USD (California) Newcomer Toolkit

  • Description: This is a brief SIFE math diagnostic assessment that was designed to be given at the beginning of a Newcomer Algebra course.

SLIFE Program Planning Tools

• Worcester Public Schools Self-Assessment: DESE SLIFE Guidance

  • Source: Worcester Public Schools

  • Description: A self-assessment checklist that a district or school SLIFE planning team can use to self-assess strengths and areas of need with regard to identifying and supporting SLIFE.

• SLIFE Program Review Planning Tool

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: The SLIFE Program Review Planning Tool provides a process to annually review SLIFE programs for alignment with current research-based practices. This review protocol can serve as a tool to review and record the current implementation status of best practices each year and can also serve as an action plan for next steps for full implementation of these research-based best practices. 

Tools for Coordinating SLIFE Services & Supports

• SLIFE Success Portfolio

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support

  • Description: A holistic and collaborative approach to developing and maintaining a SLIFE Success Plan. Note: The development of a SLIFE portfolio like this is entirely optional. Districts should be aware that this optional SLIFE plan differs from the mandated benchmark requirement for all ELs.

• SLIFE Success Plan template

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support

  • Description: A sample template that schools and districts can use or modify to support individual SLIFE by collaborating, setting goals, coordinating services/supports, and monitoring progress. Note: The development of a SLIFE plan like this is entirely optional. Districts should be aware that this optional SLIFE plan differs from the mandated benchmark requirement for all ELs.

• SLIFE Individualized Learning Plan (ILP) 

  • Source: Worcester Public Schools (MA)

  • Description: A tool that allows educators working with SLIFE to collaborate, set goals, coordinate services/supports, and monitor progress. 

General Resources 

• ESL Best Practices Quick References Guide: SLIFE

  • Source: MA DESE

  • Description: A quick reference guide from DESE's Next Generation ESL project sharing strengths and possible needs of SLIFE students as well as strategies and best practices.  

• Newcomer Toolkit (2023), Chapter 4: Providing High-Quality Instruction for Newcomers

  • Source: NCELA, U.S. Department of Education

  • Description: This chapter of the Newcomer Toolkit focuses on principles of high-quality instruction for newcomers and includes helpful resources.

• Focus Bulletin on SLIFE: Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education

  • Source: WIDA

  • Description: This WIDA Focus Bulletin includes teaching tips, Q&A, and additional resources about SLIFE. 

• How to support ELL Students with Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFEs)

  • Source: Colorín Colorado 

  • Description: This article provides information on SIFE strengths and needs and recommendations of best practices. 

• Mutually Adaptive Learning Paradigm (MALP) Instructional Approach and resources

  • Source: MALP Education

  • Description: Overview of MALP, unit planning checklist for educators, and links to additional resources

• Nebraska English Language Proficiency Standards - SLIFE Guidance

  • Source: Nebraska Department of Education

  • Description: This resource explains how SLIFE students can be assessed and how they can also work through both learning academic language and meeting standards in Nebraska. 

• Six Steps to Consider When Supporting MLs in Accessing Complex Texts

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: Infographic with helpful steps to follow for educators 

• Online Library for Students in Multiple Languages 

  • Source: Unite for Literacy

  • Description: Free online books and audiobooks at different levels of accessibility for beginning readers. Books are currently available in English, Spanish, and Ukrainian.

Instructional Planning Tools

• The Next Generation ESL Toolkit

  • Source: MA DESE

  • Description: Massachusetts' framework and resources for high-quality ESL instruction. 

• Collaboration Tool

  • Source: MA DESE

  • Description: Resource from the Next Generation ESL Toolkit that facilitates collaborative planning between ESL and content teachers to support ELs (including SLIFE) across content classrooms. 

• Every Student Has a Story

  • Source: NYC Public Schools Division of Multilingual Learners Instructional Resources & Professional Learning

  • Description: 14 units for grades 4-12 written by NYC Teachers of newcomers and SIFE. Each unit features an engaging topic centered around texts that help students to share their stories in creative and meaningful ways. 

• A Framework for Foundational Literacy Skills Instruction for English Learners

  • Source: Council of Great City Schools

  • Description: Guidance about foundational literacy instruction for ELs that includes research and resources for educators.

• Academic Interventions

  • Source: Emergence Academy, Springfield MA

  • Description: Overview of how academic interventions are structured at Emergence Academy for newcomers and SLIFE to prioritize daily focus on literacy and numeracy skills.

• Strategies to Enhance Reading Skills in ENL Instruction

  • Source: NYC Public Schools Division of Multilingual Learners Instructional Resources & Professional Learning

  • Description: This professional learning series from NYC shares research-based strategies for teaching reading to English learners. 

• Scaffolded Core Curriculum Units for MLs/ELLs

  • Source: NYC Public Schools Division of Multilingual Learners Instructional Resources & Professional Learning

  • Description: Model curriculum units to show how educators have taken specific core curriculum units and scaffolded them for ELs, including SLIFE. Note: these model units were selected from the most commonly used core curricula in the NYC DOE, so they may not align with the curriculum your school or district uses. Nevertheless, they provide strong models for how to develop these types of scaffolded units.

• Scaffolded Unit Planning Checklist

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: A quick checklist for educators to help them plan scaffolds at the unit level

• Suggested Scaffolds at Each Proficiency Level 

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: A quick reference guide for scaffolds that are appropriate at beginning, intermediate, and advanced EL proficiency levels. 

• SIFE Lesson Design Framework for Secondary Students

  • Source: Oakland USD (California) Newcomer Toolkit

  • Description: This is a lesson design framework informed by research on lesson design and high-leverage instructional strategies for teaching language through content. The strategies featured here come from the Internationals Network for Public Schools and the SIFE Equity Project. 

Videos & Tools for Classroom Practices

• Centers-Based Learning in a Bridges Math Classroom

  • Source:  Bridges to Academic Success

  • Description: Classroom video about how to implement centers-based learning in a SLIFE math classroom. 

• Gradual Release of Responsibility for SIFE with Developing Literacy

  • Source: The Teaching Channel and Bridges to Academic Success

  • Description: Classroom video that shows the implementation of New York State's SLIFE integrated ELA/ESL curriculum. 

• Introducing and Interacting with Vocabulary

  • Source: Bridges to Academic Success

  • Description: Classroom video that models strategies for introducing new academic vocabulary in a SLIFE classroom. 

• Language Experience Approach

  • Source: Bridges to Academic Success

  • Description: Classroom video that shows how the Language Experience Approach strategy can be used to build foundational literacy skills for SLIFE by connecting oral language to print.

• Literacy Centers for Multilingual Students

  • Source: The Teaching Channel, featuring Bridges to Academic Success

  • Description: Classroom video that shows how to implement foundational literacy centers in a SLIFE classroom. 

• Read Retell Respond with Multilingual Students

  • Source: Bridges to Academic Success

  • Description: Classroom video about how to use the Read Retell Respond strategy in a classroom with SLIFE. 

• Teaching English Syntax to SIFE with Developing Literacy

  • Source: Bridges to Academic Success

  • Description: Classroom video about how to teach English syntax in context to SIFE with developing literacy. 

• Walls that Talk

  • Source: The Teaching Channel and Bridges to Academic Success

  • Description: Classroom video that shows how the educator uses environmental print in her classroom to support SLIFE.

• ELL Classroom Strategy Library

  • Source:  Colorín Colorado 

  • Description: Interactive strategy library includes step-by-step guides, ideas for differentiation, tips for connecting to students' home languages, and resources such as videos and practical examples. While these strategies are not exclusively designed for SLIFE, they can be easily adapted to meet SLIFE needs.

Webinars

• Supporting Secondary SIFE: Integrating Reading and Writing Foundations in the ELA Content Classroom-A Webinar

  • Source: Saddleback Education

  • Description: Webinar with Orly Klapholz, as part of Saddleback Webinar Series (January 14, 2021).

• Elevating SLIFE Success: Strategies for Programming and Instruction

  • Source: Dr. Carol Salva and SupportEd

  • Description: SupportEd webinar with Dr. Carol Salva on instructional strategies to support SLIFE.

MA DESE Tools

• Wraparound Support

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support

  • Description: This tool provides a way for schools and districts to plan and coordinate a variety of wraparound supports for students identified as SLIFE.

• Student Orientation Plan

  • Source: MA DESE, 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support

  • Description: This form provides a guide for planning an orientation process that introduces, welcomes, and supports students identified as SLIFE and families/caregivers entering the school.

Other Tools & Resources

• 8 Principles to Build Community with SIFE

  • Source: NYC Public Schools Division of Multilingual Learners Instructional Resources & Professional Learning

  • Description: This is a resource provides an overview of eight principles educators, schools, and districts can use to create supportive learning communities for SLIFE.

• Exploring Perceptions About Identity Through Self-Portraits

  • Source: Edutopia (cited by SupportEd in SLIFE Module #1)

  • Description: Video about a classroom activity "Identity Portraits" that teachers can use to help students learn about each other's identities, help them understand their own biases and prejudices, and build a strong classroom community. 

• National Child Traumatic Stress Network

  • Source: National Child Traumatic Stress Network

  • Description: This website has resources related to psychological first aid and supporting displaced children and families as well as many resources on refugee trauma.

• Newcomer Toolkit Chapter 3: Supporting Newcomers' Social, Emotional, & Mental Health Needs

  • Source: NCELA, U.S. Department of Education

  • Description: This chapter of the Newcomer Toolkit focuses on social, emotional, and mental health for newcomer students and their families. 

• Refugee & Immigrant Core Stressors Toolkit 

  • Source: Boston Children's Hospital Trauma and Community Resilience Center

  • Description: This toolkit will provide you with information about four core stressors that refugees and immigrants may face and sample questions to guide your assessment. These sample questions are not intended as a substitute for clinical judgment. The Boston Children’s Hospital Trauma and Community Resilience Center (TCRC) is dedicated to understanding and promoting the healthy adjustment of youth and families who have experienced trauma and adversity.  Their website provides a variety of resources for supporting immigrant and refugee youth.

• STRONG for Schools school-based intervention curriculum 

  • Source: Supporting Transition Resilience of Newcomer Groups (STRONG)

  • Description: Supporting Transition Resilience of Newcomer Groups (STRONG) is an evidence-informed, school-based intervention for immigrant and refugee youth (K-12th grades).  STRONG aims to build resilience and address psychological distress associated with the newcomer experience from a culturally contextualized lens. STRONG is delivered by school mental health clinicians and is comprised of 10 group sessions, one individual student session, and teacher and parent education sessions. Elementary and Secondary versions are available. STRONG is currently being implemented in schools throughout Canada and the United States. All materials are available free of cost via the website in multiple languages. 

• Social Emotional Learning Framework: Essential Actions to Achieve Equity for Multilingual Learners

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: This framework is a resource for schools and educators to apply a multilingual learner lens to CASEL's five core social and emotional competencies. This tool is useful for educators who serve all multilingual learners, including SLIFE.

• Social Emotional Learning Look-fors and Planning Tool for MLs

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: This is a resource for teachers to think about how they are planning to incorporate culturally and linguistically responsive social-emotional learning into their classrooms for multilingual learners, including SLIFE.

• What I Want My Teacher to Know About Me

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: Free template for students, to share what they would like their teachers to know about them, how they feel about English in different language domains, and goals that they have for themselves. 

Massachusetts and MA DESE Tools

• Welcoming Families Communication Toolkit

  • Source: MA DESE and the Massachusetts Statewide Family Engagement Center

  • Description: Recommended practices, templates and resources for schools and district on welcoming families. This toolkit was developed through a partnership between the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Massachusetts Statewide Family Engagement Center, a program of the Federation for Children with Special Needs. 

• Welcoming Newcomer Families: Online Resource Hub

  • Source: Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN) as part of collaboration with DESE

  • Description: A space for educators to discuss and share resources on how to welcome newcomer families to school districts. This resource hub has links to a wide variety of resources for families to access food, clothing, healthcare, housing, legal, and ESL services. 

• Massachusetts Office for Refugees and Immigrants Education, Youth, & Other Health Services Directory

  • Source: The Office for Refugees and Immigrants’ Education, Youth, Health & Other Services (ORI) 

  • Description: ORI includes several refugee programs, including case management, health and medical assistance, youth mentoring, unaccompanied minors, and more.   

Other Tools & Resources

• Newcomer Toolkit Chapter 5: Establishing Partnerships with Families

  • Source: NCELA, U.S. Department of Education

  • Description: This chapter of the Newcomer Toolkit focuses on building connections with newcomer families.

• Career Ready Checklist in Multiple Languages

  • Source: NYC Department of Education Multilingual Learners and Immigrant Student Support Site

  • Description: A checklist available in 10 different languages for ML students to prepare for careers. 

• "Making Your First ELL Home Visit: A Guide for Classroom Teachers"

  • Source: Colorín Colorado 

  • Description: This article provides practical tips for conducting home visits with English learners and their families, including steps to take before, during, and after the visit.

• Family Orientation Videos

  • Source: Oakland USD (California) Newcomer Toolkit

  • Description: Videos for newcomer families in 11 different languages. They provide general information about schooling in the U.S. and information specific to OUSD. These can be good models that MA districts could use to develop their own family orientation videos or materials. 

• Starting School in the United States: A Guide for Newcomer Students' Families

  • Source: REL Northwest

  • Description: This guide walks newcomer families through the typical schooling experiences in the United States. Available in four languages.

• Successfully Communicating with Multilingual Families

  • Source: National Association of Secondary School Principals 

  • Description: Explanations of how different districts have effectively communicated with multilingual families, including Brockton, MA.

• Haitian-American Public Health Initiative (HAPHI)

  • Source: Mutual Assistance Association Coalition

  • Description: Culturally and linguistically accessible information and services to improve the health and emotional wellbeing of the Haitian Community in Massachusetts. 

• Brazilian Worker Center

  • Source: Brazilian Worker Center 

  • Description: The Brazilian Worker Center is a non-profit organization that capacitates immigrant workers to learn about workplace rights, immigration, and health equity. The site includes links to a variety of resources offered at its Family Welcome Center in Boston. 

• Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI)

  • Source: Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI) 

  • Description: Comprehensive services for new arrivals in the IFSI Offices in Boston, Brockton, and Worcester.

• Immigrant's Assistance Center

  • Source: Immigrant's Assistance Center

  • Description: Provides information and resource from a center that helps immigrants meet basic human needs and travel the complex road to American citizenship, employment, and financial self-sufficiency while maintaining their ethnic identity and pride. 

• Mass 211 Assistance Hotline

  • Source: Mass211

  • Description: A hotline to help locate essential community services (e.g., after-school programs, food banks, aging care). 

• Switchboard

  • Source: Office of Refugee Resettlement

  • Description: This website is a one-stop resource hub for refugee service providers in the United States. This is a library of learning resources, an online evidence database, a range of self-paced e-learning courses, regular live learning opportunities, and on-demand technical assistance for ORR-funded organizations. This includes school districts participating in the Refugee School Impact program.

• TalkingPoints

  • Source: TalkingPoints

  • Description: A multilingual technology platform (free for individual educators to sign-up) that connects and empowers families and teachers by using human and AI-powered, two-way translated communication and personalized content. Supports home-school connections and family engagement. 

Massachusetts and MA DESE Tools

• SLIFE Success Portfolio, Part C: Ongoing Progress Monitoring (MA SLIFE Guidance)

  • Sample 1: SLIFE Support Checkpoints

  • Sample 2: SLIFE Progress Monitoring Form

  • Sample 3: SLIFE Sample Student Success Plan

• The 2024 Massachusetts Guidance for SLIFE Identification, Services, and Support provides sample progress monitoring resources as part of Appendix A: Sample SLIFE  Success Portfolio. These sample tools are designed to track and asses various aspects of SLIFE development and achievement. Schools or districts may choose to customize these tools to meet their needs or develop tools of their own. Schools and districts may also use existing systems that they have to conduct ongoing progress monitoring.

Other Tools & Resources

• SLIFE Individualized Learning Plan (ILP)

  • Source: Worcester Public Schools (MA)

  • Description: A tool that allows educators working with SLIFE to collaborate, set goals, coordinate services/supports, and monitor progress. 

• Numeracy Assessment and Monitoring tools

  • Source: Easy CBM

  • Description: Free progress measure instruments to assess and monitor skills across multiple grades (K-8). Educators need to create an account and can then access the free materials. Specifically, the math measures offer grade-aligned assessment tools with minimal-to-no language.

• Strengthening SLIFE Pathways to Graduation Goal Setting and Planning

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: Free resource for graduation goal setting for SLIFE 

• SLIFE Transition/Reclassification Form

  • Source: New Bedford Public Schools (MA)

  • Description: This is the form New Bedford uses to support the transition for students classified as SLIFE to mainstream classes. 

• ML Formative Assessment Checklist

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: A checklist to help educators plan effective formative assessments for multilingual learners, including SLIFE. 

• The Five Pillars of Equitably Grading ELLs: Article , Webinar, and Checklist

  • Source: SupportEd

  • Description: Article, webinar, and checklist about equitable grading practices for ELLs, including SLIFE

• • Breaking New Ground for SLIFE: The Mutually Adaptive Learning Paradigm, 2nd Ed. (2023)

    • Authors: Andrea DeCapua and Helaine Marshall

    • Description: Updated version of the ground-breaking book on MALP. 

  • Making the Transition to Classroom Success: Culturally Responsive Teaching for Struggling Language Learners (2013)

    • Authors: Andrea DeCapua and Helaine Marshall

    • Description: Research-centered guide for teachers on culturally responsive strategies for SLIFE. This book applies the MALP model in the classroom context.

  • Meeting the Needs of SLIFE: A Guide for Educators, 2nd Ed. (2020)

    • Authors: Andrea DeCapua and Helaine Marshall

    • Description: Updated text for teachers of students identified as being SLIFE

  • SLIFE: What Every Teacher Needs to Know: Brief Instructional Guides (2023)

    • Author: Andrea DeCapua 

    • Description: Reference guide for teachers of SLIFE

  • Boosting Achievement: Reaching Students with Interrupted or Minimal Education (2017)

    • Authors: Carol Salva and Anna Matis

    • Description: A book examining how to support students identified as SLIFE. 

  • English and Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education: Global Perspectives on Teacher Preparation and Classroom Practices (2022)

    • Editor: Javier Penton Herrera

    • Description: Compilation of international perspectives on supporting K-12 students with limited or interrupted education. 

  • Making Americans (2022)

    • Author: Jessica Lander

    • Description: Massachusetts author and educator Jessica Lander writes about supporting immigrant students in U.S. schools. 

  • Persistence of Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education

    • Author: Carol Salva

    • Description: Dissertation by Dr. Salva 

  • Students with Interrupted Formal Education: Bridging Where They Are and What They Need (2017)

    • Authors: Brenda Custodio & Judith O'Loughlin

    • Description: Guide for educators to meet the socio-emotional and academic needs of SLIFE.

• • Creating Systems to Identify and Support Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE)"

    • Source: Ellevation

    • Description: An interview with Orly Klapholz (Inlier Learning) on the Ellevation "Highest Aspirations" podcast.

• • District-Level Needs Assessment: Building a Supportive Infrastructure for Newcomer Students and Families

    • Source: MA DESE

    • Description: A resource to assist Massachusetts district leaders in evaluating their schools' capacity to support newcomer students and their families upon arrival. 

  • A Guide for the Placement and Evaluation of Foreign-Born Students 

    • Source: Palm Beach County School District, Florida 

    • Description: A resource provided to Guidance Counselors and ESOL Coordinators by the Department of Multicultural Education of the School District of Palm Beach County, Florida.  

  • Evaluating Foreign Transcripts: A Resource Guide for School Districts (2023)

    • Source: Rhode Island Department of Education [adapted from guidance produced by the Office of Youth Development and School-Community Services (OYDSCS) of the New York City Department of Education (DOE)]

    • Description: A reference tool for districts to assist school staff members with evaluating foreign transcripts for students newly enrolling from other countries.

  • Welcoming, Registering, and Supporting Newcomer Students: A Toolkit for Educators of Immigrant and Refugee Students in Secondary Schools 

    • Source: IES, Regional Education Lab Northwest

    • Description: This resource is intended to help educators identify and use research-based practices, policies, and procedures for welcoming, registering, and supporting newcomer immigrant and refugee students who are attending secondary schools in the United States, as well as their families.

  • Finding the Right Starting Point: Obtaining, Interpreting, and Evaluating International Transcripts

    • Source: IES, Regional Education Lab Northwest

    • Description: This infographic outlines three steps for evaluating international transcripts to support enrollment of secondary newcomer immigrant students.

  • Welcoming and Enrolling Students 

    • Source: U.S. Department of Education

    • Description: These resources are designed to help schools welcome and enroll newcomer students. Included on this page are guides and toolkits as well as webinar recordings that feature best practices, policies, and procedures to ensure Afghan students can successfully enroll and feel welcomed in schools.

  • SLIFE Intake and Enrollment Checklist

    • Source: SupportEd

    • Description: Tool to support intake and enrollment of students identified as SLIFE.

• • Letter From the Commissioner: Welcoming Newcomer and Refugee Students and Families (4/6/22)

    • Source: MA DESE

    • Description: Guidance for Massachusetts educators about welcoming newcomer and refugee students and their families. 

  • Enrolling and Supporting Newcomer Students in Massachusetts Districts: Frequently Asked Questions

    • • Source: MA DESE

      • Description: FAQ document for Massachusetts school and district personnel.

  • Attorney General’s Advisory Regarding Equal Access to Public Education for All Students Irrespective of Immigration Status

    • Source: Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General

    • Description: Legal advisory about all students' rights to access a free and appropriate public education in Massachusetts.

  • Confronting Discrimination Based on National Origin and Immigration Status

    • Source: U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Department of Education

    • Description: A fact sheet for families and educators about all students' rights to enroll in public schools without regard to their or their parents' or guardians' immigration status.

  • Educational Services for Immigrant Children and Those Recently Arrived to the United States

    • Source: U.S. Department of Education

    • Description: This fact sheet provides information to help education leaders better understand the responsibilities of states and local educational agencies (LEAs) in connection with immigrant students, and the existing resources available to help educate all immigrant students – including children who recently arrived in the United States. 

  • Fact Sheet: Information on the Rights of All Children to Enroll in School

    • Source: U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Department of Education.

    • Description: Guidance on educational access 

  • Resources for Immigrants, Refugees, Asylees and Other New Americans

    • Source: U.S. Department of Education

    • Description: Information and resources for immigrant, refugee, and asylee students and families.

  • Resources for Refugees

    • Source: U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement, Administration of Children and Families

    • Description: Up-to-date listing of resources and supports from this federal office. 

U.S. Department of Education

• Newcomer Toolkit (Entire Toolkit)

  • Source: NCELA, U.S. Department of Education

  • Description: Newcomer Toolkit includes 5 chapters: 1) Who are Newcomers? 2) Welcoming Newcomers to a Safe, Inclusive, & Thriving School Environment, 3) Supporting Newcomers' Social, Emotional, and Mental Health Needs, 4) Providing High-Quality Instruction for Newcomers, 5) Establishing Partnerships with Families.

California

• Newcomer Toolkit (Oakland, CA)

  • Source: Oakland Unified School District

  • Description:  This website includes a variety of resources, including curriculum and instruction, program design, and district policies from Oakland public schools.

Maine

• Maine Resources on Newcomers and SLIFE

  • Source: Maine Department of Education

  • Description: Links to Minnesota Department of Education's resources on SLIFE, including learning modules, templates, etc.

Minnesota

• Minnesota Resources on SLIFE

  • Source: Minnesota Department of Education

  • Description: Links to Minnesota Department of Education's resources on SLIFE, including learning modules, templates, etc.

Mississippi

• Supports for English Learner Students with Limited or Inconsistent/Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE)

  • Source: Mississippi Department of Education

  • Description: A practical guide for Mississippi educators to identify and meet the needs of SLIFE.

Nebraska

• Nebraska Resources on SLIFE

  • Source: Nebraska Department of Education

  • Description: Links to Nebraska Department of Education's resources on SLIFE, including learning modules, templates, etc.

New York

• New York Resources on SIFE

  • Source: New York State Department of Education

  • Description: Links to New York State Department of Education's resources on SIFE/SLIFE, including templates, screening resources, learning modules, etc.

• Students with Interrupted/Inconsistent Formal Education (SIFE): Building Bridges

  • Source: New York State Department of Education

  • Description: Video from NY State Education Department on understanding and supporting SIFE/SLIFE. 

• The First Steps: A Leader’s Resource for Welcoming Newly Arrived ELLs in NYC Public Schools

  • Source: New York City Public Schools, Division of Multilingual Learners

  • Description: This resource walks teams through the enrollment, identification and screening process for newly arrived English Language Learners and connect that intake data to instructional programming and supports for students and families. 

• Postsecondary Readiness Journey Map

  • Source: New York City Public Schools

  • Description: This is a guide for secondary multilingual and immigrant students as they approach postsecondary education. 

Virginia

• Supporting Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Schooling (SLIFE) Guidebook

  • Source: Virginia Department of Education

  • Description: This guidebook includes information for Virginia schools about identifying SLIFE and providing equitable opportunities and support.