Programs/Services

English Language Learner photo

EL (English Learner)

English Learners: EL students currently constitute 15% of all public school students enrolled in the South Sioux City Community School District. This percentage is higher than the state average of 7%.*

Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) and the Equal Educational Opportunities Act of 1974 (EEOA), public schools must ensure that EL students can participate meaningfully and equally in educational programs. In addition, under Title III of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), ELs must show increased academic achievement in content areas each year, while learning English. Schools in Nebraska are also subject to implementing the provisions of Rule 15: Regulations and Procedures for the Education of English Learner Programs in Nebraska Public Schools. The purpose of Title 92, Nebraska Administrative code, Chapter 15 is to enable each English learner to become proficient in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The rule requires schools to:

  • Identify students in need of services
  • Implement a language instruction educational program
  • See that staff members are endorsed or receive ongoing professional development
  • Ensure students participate in the state assessments with appropriate accommodations
  • Exit  students when they have attained English proficiency
  • Conduct an annual program review

In the South Sioux City School District, our EL program focuses on inclusive practices with some pull out and sheltered instruction. Our EL teachers have prioritized the NE ELPA21 standards and created proficiency scales in the areas of Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. Each year, we conduct a program review and make a summary report available to the public. 

*Information from 2017-18 Nebraska Education Profile