The First Step: When you register your child for school, you will fill out a Home Language Survey.

• If you list a language other than English: A certified teacher will give your child a short screening test (WIDA Screener) to see if they need extra support with English.

If your child qualifies for services, they will be placed in one of two programs. Both are designed to help students acquire English while attending their regular classes.

A. Transitional Bilingual Education (TBE)

• Who it’s for: Typically for groups of students (20 or more in one school) who share the same home language and qualify for additional English Language (EL) services.
• How it works: Your child stays in their regular classroom for most subjects.
• Support: An EL teacher comes into the class or works with small groups to explain lessons and ensure the material is understood.
• Native Language Support: Teachers may use your child's home language to help bridge their understanding of new concepts.

B. Transitional Program of Instruction (TPI)

• Who it’s for: Typically for students who speak a language with fewer speakers in the school.
• How it works: Your child stays in their regular classroom for most subjects.
• Support: An EL teacher comes into the class or works with small groups to explain lessons and ensure the material is understood.
  Language: Instruction is primarily in English, with support designed to make sure your child understands the content.

The ACCESS Test

Every year in January and February, all students in the program take a state-required test called ACCESS (Assessing Comprehension and Communication in English State-to-State).

• What it measures: It checks your child’s progress in Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing in English.
• Why it matters: It helps us measure how much their English is improving from year to year.

When does my child exit the program?

Your child is ready to exit the program when they reach an overall composite score of 4.8 on the ACCESS test.

After Exiting:

Even after your child leaves the program, our team will continue to check on their progress for up to five years to ensure they continue to succeed without additional support.
 

Can I decline services?

Yes. You may refuse these services at any time by writing a letter or email to your child's EL teacher explaining your reason for declining.

Important Note:

Even if you decline services, the Illinois State Board of Education requires your child to take the ACCESS test annually until they reach a score of 4.8.