English Language Learner (ELL) Program
The purpose of the Title III English Learner (EL) Student Program is to ensure that all EL students attain English proficiency, develop high levels of academic attainment in English, and meet the same challenging state academic standards as all other students. (20 United States Code § 6812.)
When a child enrolls in a CA school and a language other than English is noted on the child’s Home Language Survey, the law requires LEAs (school districts) to assess that child and notify parent/guardian of the child’s proficiency (California Education Code, Sections 313 and 60810).
Barstow Unified School District (BUSD) identifies rigorous goals and objectives for English Learner (EL) students. BUSD works to ensure that EL students acquire full proficiency in English as rapidly and successfully as possible in order to attain parity with native English speakers. The ELPAC identifies four English-language proficiency levels for ELs:
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The district’s goal for EL students is to move up one ELPAC level per year until they reach Level 4 and are reclassified as Fluent-English Proficient (FEP).
For additional information regarding BUSD's English Language Learner plan please see the below EL Master Plan. -
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Reclassification is the process whereby a student is reclassified from EL status to Fluent English Proficient (RFEP) status. Reclassification can take place at any time during the academic year, immediately upon the student meeting all the criteria.
Assembly Bill (AB) 2555
California signed Assembly Bill (AB) 2555 into law on September 27, 2026, streamlining and standardizing how English Learner (EL) students are reclassified as Reclassified Fluent English Proficient (RFEP) across all California school districts.
Key Changes to Reclassification Standard
Under AB 2555, reclassification is now based solely on state English language proficiency assessments (formerly Criterion 1).
A student is eligible for reclassification if they achieve either of the following scores:
- Summative ELPAC: Overall Performance Level 4
- Summative Alternate ELPAC: Overall Performance Level 3
Districts are no longer required or permitted to use local teacher evaluations, parent consultation gatekeeping, or additional local academic basic skills assessments (Criteria 2–4) to delay or determine reclassification.
2026-2027 BUSD Reclassification Criteria (updated board-approved criteria coming soon)
Informational slides: CDE Revised EL Reclassification October 2026
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English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC)
- For more information visit CDE's website at CAASPP & ELPAC A California Assessment System
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District English Language Advisory Committee (DELAC)
A district-level English Learner Advisory Committee comprised of parents, staff, and community members designated to advise district officials on English learner programs and services.
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English Language Advisory Committee
A school-level committee comprised of parents, staff, and community members designated to advise school officials on English learner programs and services.
- Meeting Schedule coming soon