How do districts first identify students who could be Limited English Proficient (LEP)?

The identification of students who could be Limited English Proficient (LEP) typically begins with the home language survey. This tool is essential for gathering crucial information about a student's language background and the primary language spoken at home. By asking parents or guardians about the languages used in the household, schools can accurately identify which students may need additional support due to their limited proficiency in English.

Using a home language survey is important because it allows educators to pinpoint students who may not have English as their first language, enabling the school to provide appropriate resources and support early in the educational process. This proactive approach is vital for ensuring that all students receive the necessary services to succeed in a diverse learning environment.

While standardized testing, teacher observations, and academic performance assessments can play roles in assessing a student's overall language abilities, they come after the initial identification stage, where understanding the linguistic background through the home language survey is foundational.