Bilingual Education

Who is an ML?                 

A Multilingual Learner (ML) is a student who is eligible to receive support at school with their English language development.

How is eligibility determined?                 

A Home Language Survey is filled out upon registering into the Lansing School District by a parent/guardian. According to the responses on the survey, their child is administered an English Language (WIDA) Screener. Students can earn between 1.0-6.0 in Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking.  If a student scores less than 5.0 in their overall composite score (for grades 1-12) or less than 5.0 in Oral Language (for Kindergarten) they are identified as an Multilingual Learner and qualify for ML supports.

To Learn more about the WIDA, check out the Lansing School District WIDA Website.

How long will my student be considered an ML?   

Every year, MLs take an English proficiency assessment called the WIDA Test. The assessment measures whether students are performing on grade-level in Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing in English. When a student earns an overall composite score of 4.8 or higher, they are exited and no longer eligible for ML supports.

Does my immigration status and the language that I speak affect my child's right to receive a free public education? 

No. Your child has the right to receive a free public education regardless of your immigration status and the language that you speak.

Will I be asked to provide information or paperwork which may reveal my or my child's immigration status, visa status, or citizenship status upon school enrollment?

No. You have the right to enroll your child in school without being asked to provide information or paperwork which may reveal your or your child's immigration status, visa status. or citizenship status. However you MUST provide proof of residency, to show if you live within the district boundaries and are eligible for free transportation.

For more information on Enrollment or to begin the process visit the Lansing School District Enrollment Page.

Will I receive written notice if my child is identified as an Multilingual Learner and placed in a Bilingual or English as a Second Language Program?

Yes. You have the right to written notice in English and your preferred language that your child has been identified as Multilingual Learner and will be placed in a Language Acquisition Program (LAP).

Am I able to meet with school staff to discuss my child's overall learning and language development practice?  

Yes. You have the right to meet with school staff to discuss your child(ren)'s overall learning and language development progress. This can happen at Report Card nights as well as individual scheduled meetings as a result of reaching out to your student's teacher.

The Bilingual Department Language Lines can be used to contact your child's school and request a meeting with your child's teacher.

What if I don't want to enroll my child into a Bilingual or English as a Second Language Program?

You have the right to refuse services, but must submit your refusal in writing.

Please use the Request for Refusal of ELD Services form to submit this request.

Letters can be mailed in or sent electronically to Trisha Black

trisha.black@lansingschools.net | Newcomer Center 301 W Jolly Rd, Lansing MI 48910

How often will my child be assessed to determine progress towards their English language development?

Your child will be tested yearly to determine progress towards their English language development. You have the right to obtain information about your child's English language development yearly. Please contact Trisha Black at trisha.black@lansingschools.net for more information.

If my child has been assessed and qualifies for services, can s/he retake the assessment?

Students are allowed to take the assessment once per school year. They are welcome to try again in the following school year.

As a Multilingual Learner, will my child receive content instruction at the same academic level?

Yes. Your child has the right to receive all content instruction, and to learn English and other subjects such as Reading/Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies at the same academic level as all other children.

As a Multilingual Learner, will my child be able to access extracurricular activities (afterschool clubs, sports, etc.)?

Yes. Your child has the right to have full access to extracurricular activities (afterschool clubs, sports, etc.). Being identified as an Multilingual Learner does not limit their ability to take part in extracurricular activities.

How will I communicate with the school if I have a question? 

We offer language lines in many different languages. You may leave a message with your questions, and someone who speaks your language will respond to you.

Where can parents find information about taking English classes?

The Lansing School District provides Adult Education classes that include English Classes, GED and High School Completion classes. For more information check out the LSD Adult Education Website or contact Jan Hobbs at jan.hobbs@lansingschools.net or 517.755.4040