What is this bill about?
The Education Omnibus Trailer Bill proposes to change the definition to a “pupil who has not attained English language proficiency within six years of initial classification as an English learner.”
Why doesn’t it align with yli’s values?
More than a quarter of California’s youngest children arrive in public schools not yet fluent in English (reading, writing, listening, and speaking). Federal law requires that these children receive supportive services so they can access academic content while becoming fluent in English. Over time, most children who receive supportive language services in California’s schools become proficient in academic English and succeed in K–12 and beyond. However, for those who do not advance quickly, the transition out of supportive services appears to be slow or never happens. These children have some of the poorest outcomes in the state.
Under the proposed definition, very few to none of these students would be identified early enough to prevent them from becoming long-term English learners. This early identification is especially important given the transition from elementary to secondary school structures. As students move into upper grades, they typically encounter multiple teachers throughout the day, making it more challenging to coordinate comprehensive and targeted support plans.
Along with our partners, we propose the following amendment to the AR-LTEL definition:
“English learners at risk of becoming a long-term English learner” means a “pupil who has been an English learner for 4 years and scores at Level 2 or below on the ELPAC, or who has been an English learner for 5–6 years and scores at Level 3 or below on the ELPAC”
yli partners with thousands of youth across the state, the majority of whom are low-income youth of color. We have witnessed first hand the ways in which the lack of basic services and resources block myriad other opportunities. Our youth depend on us to support policies that will ensure students are connected with the resources and services they need to thrive.
This policy aligns with our Education Justice Platform, which advocates for free, high quality, whole person education for all.
What is yli doing about it?
We have just signed on to a letter opposing this bill, and we are asking others to join us via on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Who else opposes this bill?
- Californians Together