The Role of the Multilingual Learner Specialist
Multilingual Learner Specialist (MLS) serve to support educators and our Multilingual Learner students (MLs) throughout the school year. ML Specialists support students in a variety of ways, including:
- Monitoring grades and attendance
- Conducting 1-on-1 check-ins with students
- Biweekly check-ins with newly transitioned newcomers to Standard Program (aka mainstream) classes
- Administering the annual ELPAC test
- Managing the reclassification process
- Addressing any other issues or needs related to our MLs
Important Terms to Know
The term "ML" (Multilingual Learner) is an umbrella term that includes several student categories.
Key definitions:
Multilingual Learner (ML): A student learning English in addition to their existing home or first language(s), whose diverse linguistic abilities and cultural strengths are recognized as valuable assets. Under the ML umbrella, you'll see:
- Newcomer (0N, 1N, 2N, 3N): A student in their 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year in the US. These students qualify for ML classes with a D-ELD class.
- Advanced Newcomer (AN): Newcomer (less than three years in US) that has received an Initial ELPAC score between 425-449
- Medium Term Multilingual Learner (MT): Non-native English speaker in the US for four to five years.
- Long Term Multilingual Learner (LTEL): Non-native English speaker in the US for six+ years.
Reclassification or RFEP: The process whereby a Multilingual Learner (grades 9-12) is Reclassified as a Fluent English Proficient (RFEP) student after meeting various linguistic and academic criteria. The first and usually hardest step is scoring a 4 on the ELPAC, or 3 on Alternate ELPAC. Once reclassified, students are monitored for four years.
