STEP 1
The home language survey
Schools use the family’s answers to identify students who may need an initial English proficiency assessment. Answer truthfully about languages spoken at home; bilingualism itself is not a learning problem.
FAMILY LEARNING GUIDE · GUÍA PARA FAMILIAS
Understand English Learner Support
Practical steps.
Understand school language programs, assessments, and reclassification.
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STEP 2
Initial versus Summative ELPAC
Initial ELPAC helps determine whether a student is an English learner when first enrolled in California schools. Summative ELPAC measures English proficiency progress annually for identified English learners.
STEP 3
Reading the score report
Find the overall performance level, then examine oral and written language results. Ask the school which language skills are strongest and what support will address growth areas. Performance levels do not replace classroom grades.
STEP 4
Reclassification in 2026–27
California law effective September 27, 2026 makes an overall level 4 on Summative ELPAC or level 3 on Summative Alternate ELPAC the reclassification criterion. Eligible students with 2025–26 scores must be reclassified no later than January 31, 2027. Check the state FAQ for implementation updates.
STEP 5
How to request an update
Ask what language services your child receives, how progress is monitored, which recent assessment results are available, and who can explain the reclassification timeline.
Trusted resources · Recursos confiables
California Department of Education: EL family information →
California Department of Education: AB 2555 FAQs →
Official ELPAC score report resources →