Multilingual Department
Welcome to Our Multilingual Program
Our Multilingual Program supports students who are learning English while building on the strengths of their home language. We believe that being multilingual is an asset, and we are committed to helping every student succeed academically and socially
How Are Students Identified?
We follow a statewide process approved by the Oregon Department of Education to identify students who may benefit from multilingual (English language) support.
When enrolling, families complete a Language Use Survey (LUS). If a language other than English is listed, our Multilingual Department reviews the student’s background, which may include school records and, if needed, an English language screener.
An ML Program Specialist then determines if a student:
- Qualifies for multilingual services
- Is already proficient in English
- Needs additional assessment
Families are notified of the results, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
What Does Support Look Like?
Students receive support in different ways depending on their needs:
- Extra help understanding lessons
- Support with speaking, reading, listening and writing in English
- Opportunities to practice academic language
Our goal is to help students fully access grade-level learning.
Program Models
Co-Teaching (Push-In Support)
- The multilingual teacher works inside the classroom
- Students receive support during regular instruction
- Language and content are taught together
Pull-Out Support
- Students work in small groups outside the classroom
- Focus on targeted language skills
- Lessons connect to classroom learning
What Is the ELPA? & How Do We Measure Progress?
We measure students’ English language growth using the ELPA21 as well as other tools in our day to day learning.
ELPA21 is a test that assesses how well students can listen, speak, read, and write in English. It includes two types of assessments:
- Screener – given when a student first enrolls (if needed)
- Summative – taken each year by students receiving multilingual services
At the end of each school year, students take the ELPA21 summative assessment. Results help us understand how much a student has grown in English and whether they still need support or are ready to exit the program.
Unlike classroom tests, ELPA21 does not measure academic content or affect grades. Instead, it focuses on how well students can understand and communicate in English, helping us provide the right level of support.
Understanding ELPA Levels
Students receive scores in levels such as:
Emerging – Beginning to learn English
Progressing – Developing skills
Proficient – Ready for full academic independence
Growth happens over time, and every student progresses at their own pace.
Exiting the Program
Students exit multilingual services when they demonstrate a strong level of English proficiency. This is typically shown by earning scores of 4s or 5s across all four language domains (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) on the ELPA21.
In addition to assessment results, we also consider a student’s ability to successfully participate in grade-level learning using academic English.
Families will be notified when students meet the criteria and are ready to exit the program.
Family Resources & Support
We partner with families by providing:
- Translation and interpretation services
- Updates on student progress
- Support for learning at home
Please contact us if you have any questions!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my child in this program?
When your child was registered, a Language Use Survey (LUS) was completed. If a language other than English was listed, it prompted a review and possible screening to better understand your child’s English language development. Based on this process, your child qualified for multilingual support to help them succeed in school.
How long will my child receive services?
Each student is different. Services continue until a student reaches proficiency based on language assessments and classroom performance.
Will this affect my child’s grades?
No. Multilingual services are designed to support your child’s success in the classroom and do not negatively impact grades.
Will my child receive services in middle school or high school?
Yes. Multilingual services continue through elementary, middle, and high school until a student reaches English proficiency. Support is provided at every level to ensure students continue to grow and succeed academically.