Student Identification and Placement

Initial English Language Learner Identification

When new students register in Westborough Public Schools (WPS), families must complete a Home Language Survey (HLS). The HLS is administered in the student's preferred language. Licensed ESL teachers will contact the family if any language other than English is indicated on the HLS. Suppose the specific questions on the HLS indicate a language other than English. In that case, the law requires the district to screen the students to determine if they need English language development instruction.

Initial Language Proficiency Screening Procedures

Westborough Public Schools (WPS) screens all new students who indicate a language other than English at home. If any language other than English is indicated on the student's Home Language Survey (HLS), licensed ESL teachers will contact the family for further screening. 

Students requiring a language proficiency screening based on the HLS will be promptly assessed to determine whether they are English Learners (ELs) or Fluent English Speakers. The student's proficiency levels in speaking, listening, reading, and writing will be considered in determining their designation, programming, and placement.
Certified test administrators are trained to administer and interpret state-approved screening instruments: WIDA Screener for K-12 and Pre-LAS assessments for PreK. PreK screenings and assessments will take place at WECC (Westborough Early Childhood Center), while K-12 students will be screened at their respective schools within the district (Fales, Hastings, Armstrong, Mill Pond, Gibbons, WHS).  The results of these initial screenings will be recorded on the district’s language proficiency test results document and explained to the parent/guardian and/or student by the test administrator.

Parent Notification of ELD Services

WPS provides parents of newly enrolled ELs with notification of service within ten days of student enrollment into the program.  WPS annually provides parents of ELs identified for participation in an ELE program with notification within the first 30 days of the school year.  WPS provides parent notification letters in a language the parent can understand to the extent practicable.

Using Annual ACCESS for ELLs 2.0 Results to Inform Placement

The ACCESS for ELLs 2.0 assessment is a required state exam that measures English proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It is given to students identified as English learners in Kindergarten through 12th grade. The exam helps monitor students' progress in learning academic English and provides data for curriculum development and classroom assessment. It also identifies students progressing towards English language proficiency and informs program planning. Language proficiency scores guide interventions and assist in evaluating special education services for English learners.

Full Document:  Student Identification and Placement Procedures