English Language Development (ELD)
Supporting Multilingual Learners Every Day!
At Eagle Point School District 9, we believe multilingualism is a strength.
Our English Language Development (ELD) program helps students develop English language skills while accessing grade-level learning opportunities and maintaining pride in their home language and culture.
We are committed to equitable access, rigorous instruction, and strong family partnerships
Questions? Please reach out to Amy Isackson.
What Is ELD?
English Language Development (ELD) provides language instruction and support for students learning English.
Students receive instruction in:
- Speaking
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
The purpose of ELD is to help students:
- Develop speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
- Access grade-level instruction.
- Build academic vocabulary and communication skills.
- Participate fully in school opportunities.
- Develop confidence as multilingual learners.
Students receive language support while continuing to participate in core academic classes.
Why Does Explicit Language Instruction Matter?
Learning academic English takes time and intentional instruction. Students benefit from explicit teaching of:
- Academic vocabulary.
- Reading comprehension.
- Academic writing.
- Classroom discussion skills.
- Language used in math, science, and social studies.
Learning academic English takes time and intentional instruction. Explicit Language instruction helps students participate in rigorous grade-level learning while developing English proficiency.
What Are English Language Proficiency (ELP) Standards?
English Language Proficiency (ELP) Standards guide instruction for multilingual learners and are aligned with Oregon’s college and career-ready academic standards. The standards help students develop the language needed to successfully participate in English language arts, mathematics, science, and other academic subjects.
The ELP Standards focus on helping students:
- Communicate ideas clearly.
- Participate in academic discussions.
- Read and understand complex texts.
- Write for academic purposes.
- Use language to solve problems and explain thinking.
The standards support both language development and academic learning at the same time. Teachers work together to provide students with opportunities to use language in meaningful and rigorous classroom activities.
The ELP Standards emphasize what students are able to do with language within subject areas, rather than focusing only on grammar or vocabulary in isolation.
What Is ELPA?
The English Language Proficiency Assessment (ELPA) is Oregon’s annual assessment used to measure English language growth. It helps schools determine student progress and support needs. Students identified for English language development services take the ELPA assessment each year during the winter/spring testing window.
The ELPA assessment measures growth in:
Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing
Proficiency Levels:
- Emerging – Student is beginning to develop academic English skills.
- Progressing – Student is developing English skills with support.
- Early Proficient -Student uses English successfully with occasional support.
- Proficient – Student can independently use English in academic settings.
Families receive ELPA score reports each year explaining student progress.
What Are My Parent Rights?
Parents/guardians have the right to:
- Receive information in a language they understand
- Request interpreters for meetings and conferences
- Receive translated documents in your preferred home language
- Ask questions about services and student progress
- Waive/Decline* ELD services
- Request services again at any time
*Even if services are waived/declined, students will continue participating in the annual ELPA assessment, and the district will continue monitoring academic progress.
Eagle Point School District is committed to meaningful communication with all families and provides interpretation and translation services to support family engagement in education. Families have the right to receive important school information in a language they understand, including support for conferences, educational meetings, school communication, report cards, assessments, enrollment forms, special education documents, and ELD program information. Families may request interpreters or translated documents through their child’s school office so they can fully participate in their child’s education.
How Are Students Identified For ELD Services?
When a student enrolls in school, families complete the Oregon Language Use Survey. If a language other than English is indicated, the student may take the ELPA Screener to determine whether English language development support is needed. The screener measures skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing English and helps schools identify the appropriate language supports for students.
Elementary Services (K–5)
- Group Designated ELD instruction
- Integrated classroom language support.
- Literacy and vocabulary development.
- Newcomer support services.
- Dual Language opportunities are available at Table Rock Elementary.
Secondary Services (6–12)
- ELD class periods and support labs
- Academic language support in core classes.
- Newcomer support services
- Access to Seal of Biliteracy opportunities.
How Are Students Exited From ELD Services?
Students continue receiving ELD support until they demonstrate English language proficiency on the annual ELPA. Students who meet Oregon’s proficiency criteria are exited from formal ELD services. After exiting, the district monitors the student’s academic progress for four years to ensure continued success in grade-level learning. If concerns arise, additional supports may be discussed with families and school staff.
What Is Early Proficiency?
Students identified as Early Proficient scored very close to Proficient on the annual ELPA and may be ready to exit ELD services. Families are given the opportunity to decide whether their student will continue receiving ELD services or exit English Learner (EL) status after reviewing student progress and discussing options with school staff.
How Can I Help My Child At Home?
Families play an important role in language development and student success. You can support your child by:
- Read together daily in your home language and/or English.
- Encourage your child to talk about their learning and school experiences.
- Practice vocabulary through conversation.
- Ask your child questions about books and classroom topics.
- Encourage attendance and active participation in school.
- Communicate regularly with teachers and school staff.
Research shows that maintaining and developing a student’s home language supports overall academic growth and language development.