The English Language Learner (ELL) Program provides support to students whose first or native language is not English so that they can obtain the maximum benefit from the educational experiences and opportunities provided in Hawai’i’s public schools. Services to eligible students include instructional services consisting of English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction and acculturation activities delivered by qualified staff.

Services to ELL students comply with many laws, the most recent being No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Title III. The intent of NCLB Title III is to help English language learners learn English, as well as meet the same challenging academic standards as all children are expected to meet. Another law that is closely followed is Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs and activities that receive federal funds. Title VI protects those students limited in their English language skills to ensure that they are able to participate in, or benefit from, regular or special education instructional programs. The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has the responsibility for enforcing this law.

Students with limited English proficiency are tested for English language proficiency when they first enter school. The tests determine what kind of English language support is needed for the students to progress in school. Appropriate services are then provided to help students work towards the Hawaii Content Performance Standards (HCPS III). To assist teachers in this process, the Hawaii English Language Proficiency Standards (HELPS) were developed. The HELPS extend the HCPS III as a bridge to support the development of English language proficiency.

More...

• English Language Learners (ELL) Program (link disappeared)
• Evaluation & Instructional Services for ELL Program/Special Education Students
• Hawaii English Language Proficiency Standards (HELPS) (090514awiegand)

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