ESL Instructional News
October 2017
English Learners and Special Education
Kentucky Department of Education Guidance
Under Title VI and the Equal Educational Opportunity Act (EEOA), districts must ensure that EL students who have or are suspected of having a disability are identified, located, and evaluated in a timely manner and that the language needs of students who need special education and disability related services because of their disability are considered in evaluations and delivery of services. (KDE District Guide for English Learners Program, p. 3)
Myth #1
The district must wait at least two years before assessing English Learners for any Special Education services.
This is just not true. While assessment of beginning ELs may be more challenging due to the students EL status, assessment does not have to wait. EL students should be identified on the same timeline as any other student.
Myth #2
Again, this is not true. ELs who are acquiring English as an additional language learn at various rates. It is important to evaluate whether students are struggling due to language difference or a disabiility. Of course that is easier said than done. Below are some key resources that can help.
Myth #3
ECE (Special Education) "trumps" ESL.
Again, this is simply not true. For students who have been identified as both ECE and ESL, we can think about the complementary purposes of ESL and ECE services and ways that ESL and ECE staff can work together to provide the most comprehensive support possible for our ESL/ECE students.
ESL and ECE Resources
WIDA Focus on Identifying ELLs with Specific Learning Disabilities: Facts, Advice, and Resources for School Teams This is a great place to start. This WIDA bulletin is comprehensive and has links to many resources.
Being an EL is Not a Disability
The Relationship Between Special Education and ESL
Why a Team Approach Matters for Serving ELLs in Special Education
What an ESL Teacher Can Contribute to the Special Education Team
Colorin Colorado Special Education Resources
As you move forward in your exploration of this topic, feel free to contact the ESL Instructional office any time. Contact information is below.
ESL Instructional Office
ESL Specialist
Email: jayne.kraemer@jefferson.kyschools.us
Website: https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/english-second-language-esl
Location: 1325 Bluegrass Avenue, Louisville, KY, United States
Phone: 502-485-6382
Facebook: facebook.com/jcpsesl
Twitter: @jaynekraemer