RECLASSIFICATION a workshop for parents October 2012

What is reclassification? Why is it important? What are the criteria for reclassification? What is the reclassification process?

What is Reclassification? Reclassification is the term used to indicate that an English Language Learner has attained academic English fluency. More specifically. . .Reclassification indicates that an English Language Learner has achieved a level of English proficiency that, without special accommodations related to language, will enable him/her to compete academically with native English speaking peers.

Reclassification vs. Program Change Reclassification should not be confused with students moving from SEI to Mainstream. Progressing from SEI to Mainstream means that a student has moved from the BEGINNING levels of English proficiency to the INTERMEDIATE level. Reclassification means that a student has reached total FLUENCY and no longer requires English learner services.

Why is reclassification important? It is the primary goal of English Learner programs. It is a measure of the effectiveness of our English Learner programs. It is a major milestone in the academic success of our English Language Learners.

Reclassification Requirements THIRD GRADE through EIGHTH GRADE FLUENCY (4 or 5) on CELDT with a minimum of 4 on all subtests BASIC on California Standards Test in English Language Arts Writing comparable to native English speaking peers

Reclassification Requirements SECOND GRADE FLUENCY (4 or 5) on CELDT with a minimum of 4 on all subtests Reading Level (DRA) 34 Writing comparable to native English speaking peers

Reclassification Requirements FIRST GRADE FLUENCY (4 or 5) on CELDT with a minimum of 4 on all subtests Reading Level (DRA) 24 Writing comparable to native English speaking peers

Reclassification Requirements (continued) Average or better grades/ class performance Teacher approval Parent consultation

Teacher Approval In addition to student performance questions, teachers are asked to state whether they approve of the student’s reclassification. When a teacher does not approve, the district level reclassification committee reviews student performance data and discusses the student with the teacher. The final decision for reclassification, based on a combination of factors, is made at the district level.

Parent Meeting The final step in the reclassification process is parent notification. Parents are notified by the school principal when their children have met all of the district criteria for reclassification. They are invited to a meeting in which they can ask questions about reclassification.

CELEBRATION! Reclassified students receive Reclassification Certificates signed by the school principal. Students are congratulated on what is truly a major achievement – attaining FLUENCY IN ENGLISH!