English Learner Services

Connection to DUSD Mission

Designated English Language Development (ELD) is a protected time during the regular school day during which qualified teachers work with English Learner students grouped by similar English language proficiency levels and focus on the language students need to develop to be successful in school.

Description of Services Received

Elementary Designated ELD

At the elementary sites, Designated ELD is taught by both classroom teachers and Response to Intervention teachers, depending upon the needs at each site. All English Learners receive targeted language instruction at either the Emerging, Expanding or Bridging levels. During traditional full-time in person instruction, Kindergarteners receive Designated ELD thirty minutes, five days a week. In first through fifth grade, students receive forty-five minutes of instruction, four days a week.

Secondary Designated ELD

At John Knight Middle School, all English Learners have a daily class period of Designated ELD at their language proficiency level, while Dixon High School offers three periods of Designated ELD, one for Emerging proficiency students and two for Expanding. As of 2021-2022, Maine Prairie High School does not offer a Designated ELD program.