Multilingual Education

The Eagle County School District Department of Multilingual Education is committed to the language development and academic success of all students through culturally sensitive instructional practices. Nearly half of Eagle County Schools students arrive at school already speaking a language other than English at home. Language learners in all of our schools are supported through English language development programs. Additionally, many of our schools provide 50/50 Dual Language programs where all students develop academic proficiency in two languages.

The Eagle County School District was one of the first districts in Colorado where students can earn a Seal of Biliteracy with their diploma.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT

English language development is offered in all schools. English learners learn to speak, understand, read, and write in English proficiently. ELD teachers collaborate with classroom teachers to provide content-aligned language instruction as well as additional language instruction based on students' unique language needs. This may include co-planning, co-teaching, ESL classes, and sheltered instruction.

Photo of a Seal of Biliteracy award, graduation cords, and medal.

Spanish Language Development

Many of our schools are able to provide 50/50 Dual Language programs for all students. Students learn how to speak, comprehend, read, and write in both English and Spanish, regardless of native language. All teachers support language development of either English or Spanish through integration of language, literacy and content. Teachers use strategies for language development, active participation, student collaboration and discussion.

Assessment

Students learning English in the state of Colorado take the ACCESS for ELLs English language assessment in January and February. The ACCESS for ELLs evaluates English proficiency in the areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. All kindergarten through twelfth-grade students who have been identified Non-English Proficient or Limited-English Proficient in the state of Colorado participate. The results are shared in the spring.

Equal Opportunities

All students have a right to equal access to an appropriate and high-quality public education per Federal law, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Equal Educational Opportunities Act of 1974, Title III of the No Child Left Behind Act, and Colorado statutory requirements.