California State law requires that all English learners at the Elementary level are placed in an English language acquisition program that is appropriate for their grade and English proficiency level. The types of programs include:
- Structured English Immersion (SEI) designed for ELs who are new to English or at the early levels of English proficiency.
- English Language Mainstream (ELM) designed for ELs who have acquired reasonable fluency in English and are at higher levels of proficiency.
- Alternative Dual Language Programs where bilingualism, biliteracy, academic achievement and multicultural awareness is promoted. For more information visit Dual Language Programs.
The goal of each of these programs is to accelerate English language proficiency and provide access to grade level academic content. (Castañeda v. Pickard, 1981).
For more information, see the SDUSD EL Program Options website.