English Learner Testing

Students Potentially Eligible for English Learner (EL) Services:

• During the registration process for the Ypsilanti Community Schools, a Home Language Survey is completed. It is used to determine whether the student’s native language is one other than English, or whether another language is spoken in the student’s home. If either circumstance is true, the student will be assessed to determine English language proficiency. As required by the State of Michigan, the students will be assessed using the WIDA Screener.
• Students who do not achieve a proficient level on the assessment are eligible for EL services. Parents/guardians of eligible students who wish to decline EL services must request a “Decline Services” form from their school’s EL teacher or counselor.
• All students identified as English Learners (ELs) are required to take the WIDA ACCESS in the spring during February and March. This includes students who have declined services. The WIDA ACCESS will be administered each year until the student scores at a proficient level, as determined by the Michigan Department of Education.

For Students New to Ypsilanti Community Schools:

• The WIDA Screener is a screening test required for all potentially eligible English learners (ELs) new to Ypsilanti Community Schools each fall or throughout the year as they arrive. This includes exchange students. *Exceptions include students who are determined to have scored proficient at a previous school district on the English language assessment and district assessments.
• Students will be tested at their schools during the school day beginning in September. The EL teacher at that school will help coordinate testing, determine eligibility, and inform students and families of services to be provided.