DPS believes every student’s home language and culture are assets that, combined with English language skills, help students achieve success in school and life. Our Multilingual Education (MLE) programs help students learn English as they study core subjects. In an MLE program, students who are speakers of languages other than English, and not yet proficient in English, are supported by teachers specially trained to instruct Multilingual Learners. Multilingual Learners in DPS who participate in an MLE program have higher graduation rates and reading assessment scores. We strongly encourage all parents or guardians of Multilingual Learners to select an MLE program to support their student’s learning.
Regardless of which program you choose, your student will receive dedicated English Language Development support and instruction in content areas from qualified teachers. If your student qualifies for MLE services, you will work with an expert at your student’s school to select an MLE program by completing the Parent Permission Form. As a parent or guardian, you choose the services you want your student to receive.
All eligible MLL students can receive Special Education and/or Gifted and Talented services (dual identification). Dually identified MLLs must receive their required minutes of Dedicated ELD, Special Education, and/or Gifted & Talented services. Families can request classroom instruction in Spanish at a bilingual program school for their dually-identified MLL. Special Education and Gifted and Talented services may be available in Spanish at these sites, though it is not guaranteed. For more information, please contact your student’s school. Families can also contact the DPS Gifted and Talented Office at giftedandtalented@dpsk12.org or the DPS Special Education Office at sped@dpsk12.org.