English Learner Definition

English Learner Definition

English Learner (EL) is an individual:

(1) who is age 3 through 21;

(2) who is enrolled or preparing to enroll in an elementary school or secondary school;

(3)(A) who was not born in the United States or whose native language is a language other than English;

(B) who is Native American or Alaska Native or a native resident of the outlying areas; who comes from an environment where a language other than English has had a significant impact on the individual’s level of English language proficiency;

(C) who is migratory, whose native language is a language other than English and who comes from an environment where a language other than English is dominant;

(4) whose difficulties in speaking, reading, writing or understanding the English language may be sufficient to deny the individual;

(A) the ability the to meet the challenging State academic standards;

(B) the ability to successfully achieve in classrooms where the language of instruction is English; or

(C) the opportunity to participate fully in society.