In Minnesota, an ELL is defined as a learner who:
- first learned a language other than English, comes from a home where a language other than English is usually spoken, or does not use English as a primary language;
- lacks the necessary English skills to fully participate in classes taught in English.
Students are measured by the Minnesota Language Survey. The MN Language Survey must be given to every student entering the district for the first time, whether in kindergarten or a later grade regardless of perceived native language. Determining English skill level is measured by observations, teacher judgment, parent recommendations, and/or developmentally appropriate assessment instruments.
Students who are determined to have a primary language other than English are not automatically considered English Learners. However, all families that indicate the child speaks a language other than or in addition to English are screened to determine if the learner qualifies for English learner service.
English learners come from many different backgrounds. English learners may include:
- Students who are born in the US and speak a language in addition to English at home
- Students who are born in the US and speak a language or languages other than English at home
- Immigrant students who’ve had formal schooling in another language
- Immigrant students who’ve had interrupted or limited formal education
- Refugee students who’ve learned a language other than or in addition to English
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