English Language Learner
ELL program resources, entry/exit criteria, and support for students and families.
English Language Learner Program
If information obtained during the enrollment process indicates that a language other than English is the primary language of the student and/or his or her family, the student is evaluated to determine his/her level of English language proficiency. Students in kindergarten through grade 12 are evaluated for listening, speaking, reading and writing competency.
The state-adopted evaluation assessment is the Arizona English Language Learner Assessment (AZELLA). The results of this language assessment are used to determine whether a child will benefit from the services provided through the English Language Development (ELD) program. A Parental Notification and Consent form is sent home as students qualify.
Students who score an overall "Proficient" on the AZELLA are exited from the ELD program. A Reclassification form is sent home to parents regarding their child's exit status. These procedures are implemented in accordance with ARS 15-751-756.
"The overall goal is for ELL students to become fluent English proficient in a period 'not normally intended to exceed one year'. (A.R.S. 15-756.01-C)"
Language Development Approach — 4 Principles
Principle 1 – Asset-Based Behaviors and Expectations
Destiny School teachers will emphasize the linguistic resources and cultural knowledge our English learners bring with them to the school environment.
Principle 2 – Integrated Instruction in Disciplinary Language and Content
Destiny School teachers will design content instruction that integrates language and literacy development driven by AZ content area standards in tandem with AZ English Language Proficiency standards.
Principle 3 – Targeted and Explicit Language Instruction
Destiny School teachers will design explicit targeted language instruction driven by the 2019 AZ English Language Proficiency standards that provides students with an understanding of how language functions within different content areas.
Principle 4 – Assessment, Monitoring, and Feedback
Destiny School teachers will use the 2019 AZ English Language Proficiency standards, district English Language Development assessment practices, and summative assessments to measure the progress of English learners' language and content knowledge.
Please make sure that if a language other than English is the primary language spoken by your child or your family, this is indicated on the school Enrollment Form and Home Language Survey.