English Learner & Multilingual Learner Policies
The California English Learner Roadmap
The California English Learner Roadmap is a state policy designed to support English learners in public schools. It provides guidance to schools and districts on how to create inclusive and effective learning environments for students learning English.
This roadmap is based on four key principles that help ensure English learners receive the support they need to succeed.
The Four Principles of the CA EL Roadmap
🔹 1. Assets-Oriented & Needs-Responsive Schools
- Recognizes that bilingualism is an asset.
- Supports English learners’ cultures, home languages, and identities.
- Encourages schools to create welcoming and inclusive environments.
🔹 2. Intellectual Quality of Instruction & Meaningful Access
- Ensures high-quality instruction that challenges and engages students.
- Provides language support so English learners can access grade-level content.
- Uses research-based teaching strategies to develop both English and academic skills.
🔹 3. System Conditions That Support Effectiveness
- Schools and districts must have strong programs and policies for English learners.
- Educators receive training to best support multilingual students.
- Schools work together to ensure equity and success for all students.
🔹 4. Alignment & Articulation Within & Across Systems
- Programs are coordinated from early childhood through high school and beyond.
- Schools, districts, and communities work together to support English learners.
- Students are prepared for college, careers, and future opportunities.
📌 Want to Learn More?
Click here to explore the California English Learner Roadmap in more detail.
California's Vision and Mission of Success for English Learners
The California State Board of Education unanimously approved the California English Learner Roadmap State Board of Education Policy: Educational Programs and Services for English Learners (EL Roadmap Policy) on July 12, 2017. This policy is intended to provide guidance to local educational agencies (LEAs) on welcoming, understanding, and educating the diverse population of students who are English learners attending California public schools. The California English Learner Roadmap: Strengthening Comprehensive Educational Policies, Programs, and Practices for English Learners (CA EL Roadmap) builds on the EL Roadmap Policy and provides further guidance on educating English learners. The CA EL Roadmap supports LEAs as they implement the EL Roadmap Policy.
Vision
English learners fully and meaningfully access and participate in a twenty-first century education from early childhood through grade twelve that results in their attaining high levels of English proficiency, mastery of grade level standards, and opportunities to develop proficiency in multiple languages.
Mission
California schools affirm, welcome, and respond to a diverse range of English learner (EL) strengths, needs, and identities. California schools prepare graduates with the linguistic, academic, and social skills and competencies they require for college, career, and civic participation in a global, diverse, and multilingual world, thus ensuring a thriving future for California.
San Bernardino's Multilingual Initiative - Investing in Our Future Today
Our district multilingual initiative provides a pathway to engage all students in high level, multilingual learning opportunities that prepare them for success in a global, 21st century environment.
In March of 2019 SBCUSD was recognized by Californians Together as a state model for biliteracy programs. The Multilingual Programs Department was presented with the Multiple Pathway to Biliteracy District Recognition Award at the 2019 CABE Seal of Excellence Banquet.