English Language Learner

Students for whom English is not their first language are enrolled in one or two English Language Learner classes and Sheltered Academic Core classes depending on the strength of their English language skills.  Placement is based on standardized language assessments and is reviewed annually.

The Fontana Unified School District has adopted a reclassification process to enable students initially identified as English Learners to exit specialized program services and participate without further language assistance as Fluent English Proficient students.  English Learners are reclassified as Fluent English Proficient (R-FEP) when they have acquired the English skills necessary to receive instruction and achieve academic progress in English only, at a level equivalent to students of the same age or grade who’s primary language is English.  The reclassification criteria includes multiple measures to ensure both proficiency in the English Language and participation equal to that of average native speakers in the school’s regular instructional program.  The reclassification criteria validate each student’s readiness to exit from specialized English Learner programs by demonstrating achievement and mastery of grade-appropriate standards in the following areas:

1. English Language proficiency including reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

2. Academic achievement in reading, writing, and mathematics.

 FUSD Reclassification Criteria

Overall CELDT score: Early Advanced (L4) or Advanced (L5)

CELDT Listening/Speaking: Early Advanced (L4) or Advanced (L5)

CELDT Reading: Early Advanced (L4) or Advanced (L5)

CELDT Writing: Early Advanced (L4) or Advanced (L5)

CAT 6 Total Reading, Language, and Mathematics: 40^th percentile or above.

District Assessments: Writing Sample 3 or 4 in content and conventions.

Curriculum Master: Grade of Satisfactory, C or better in English Language Arts, Math, ELD, Social Studies, and Science. 

CST (California Standards Test): Proficient or Advanced in Language Arts.

CAHSEE (California High School Exit Exam): Passed

Teacher Recommendations

Parent Consultation

When an EL student, at fourth grade or above, demonstrates that she/he has reached the criteria mentioned above, a recommendation for reclassification is made by the English Language Learners Department.  The participation of teachers, support staff, school administrators, and parents is required in the reclassification process.  A separate approval process is required for such reclassification to ensure that students have mastered English Academic language and that they have the momentum to continue their growth in English proficiency without additional special language assistance. 

English Language Learners

Courses Offered

ELD 1

ELD 2

ELD 3

ELD 4

ELD 5

ELD         1, 2, 3, 4, and 5  3316, 3326, 3336, 3346 and 3356

One Year                                                                                                                                                                                                     9, 10, 11, 12

Elective classes intended to support the general language development of non-native speakers of English.  Emphasis is placed on vocabulary building and conversation.

Sheltered Academic Core

One Year                                                                                                                                                                                                     9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Appropriate designation on District language assessment exam.

Provided for designated non-native speakers of English.  These academic core classes (English, Math, Science and Social Studies) are taught by certificated teachers of English as a second language. Extra language development support is offered in these classes