English Learners Program
Supporting multilingual students on their path to academic excellence
Vision
English Learners (ELs) have the opportunity to accelerate their acquisition of English by participating in the Structured English Immersion (SEI) program. Leona Group embraces every opportunity to support success in all academic areas.
English Learner Identification Process
A home language survey is used as part of the enrollment process to determine if the new student will take the Arizona English Language Learner Assessment (AZELLA). This test measures how well a student knows English, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing. All students who qualify for English learner services will take AZELLA annually to monitor progress.
Students classified as English learners shall be offered language development support through one of the approved SEI Models from the AZ Department of Education. (A.R.S. ยง15-756.01)
Leona Group Schools English Learner Programs
We currently offer the following English Learner Programs:
SEI Pull-Out Model
- Schedules include 60 minutes per day of targeted ELD time for all EL students, provided by an SEI Endorsed teacher (50 minutes for middle school & high school)
- Grade level/content teachers provide at least 60 minutes of integrated language development (50 minutes for middle school & high school)
SEI Two-Hour Model
- Schedules include 100 minutes per day of targeted ELD for all EL students, provided by an SEI-endorsed teacher
- English instruction is integrated within the content instruction and includes a focus on how English functions within the discipline and differentiated linguistic supports
SEI Newcomer Model
- Schedules include 100 minutes per day of targeted ELD time for students in their first year identified as Pre-Emergent ELs
- Schedules include 100 minutes per week of language instruction within the integrated setting for all EL students
Exiting the English Learner Program
Students reclassify from English Language Development services when they score Proficient on the Arizona English Language Learner Assessment (AZELLA). Students who enter The Leona Group schools with limited English language experience can expect to exit the program (reclassify) within 5-7 years. Students who enter with English language experience may only need a few years of additional support in English Language Development.
Our goal is for all English learners to become fully proficient in all domains of the English language (Reading, Writing, Listening & Speaking) and to master state standards for academic success as quickly as possible.
AZELLA Assessment
The Arizona English Language Learner Assessment (AZELLA) is used to identify students who need English language support and to measure their progress toward English proficiency.
Proficiency Levels
Beginning English learners just starting to develop English skills.
Students developing basic English communication and comprehension.
Students with functional English skills who need continued support.
Students approaching proficiency with strengthening academic language.
Students who have demonstrated English proficiency and are reclassified.
Program Contact
Elvia Guevara
Program Director
elvia.guevara@leonaschools.com
School Office: (602) 243-8531
FAQ
How is my child identified for EL services?
Through the Home Language Survey and AZELLA assessment upon enrollment.
Can I decline EL services?
Parents may waive services, but we strongly recommend participation.
How long will my child receive services?
Until they demonstrate proficiency on the AZELLA assessment.
Questions About Our EL Program?
Our team is here to help answer your questions and support your child's success.