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Buena Park board unanimously approves multilingual learner master plan, adds dual language immersion pathway
Summary
The Board approved the district’s Multilingual Learner Master Plan, which aligns to federal and state requirements and the California English Learner Roadmap and lays out identification, assessment (ELPAC), reclassification and family engagement strategies ahead of a dual language immersion launch in 2025–26.
The Buena Park School District Board of Trustees on May 12 unanimously approved the district’s recommended Multilingual Learner Master Plan after a presentation by Director of Multilingual Programs Loranda Ortega.
Ortega told the Board the plan was developed by a district master plan writing team, a multilingual learner master plan committee and through community engagement; she described the document as "a comprehensive guide for supporting multilingual learners across our district." Ortega said the plan aligns to federal and state law and the California English Learner Roadmap and adds guidance for the district’s new dual language immersion (DLI) pathway, which the district plans to launch in the 2025–26 school year.
The plan specifies the district’s identification process (home language survey followed by initial ELPAC where appropriate), instructional models offered (structured English immersion with designated and integrated English language development, and dual immersion for biliteracy), and a multi‑criteria reclassification process using ELPAC results, teacher input, academic performance and parent consultation. Ortega said reclassified students will be monitored for four years to ensure continued access and success.
Ortega also outlined family engagement structures the plan will rely on, including ELAC and DELAC, and noted staff authorization and ongoing professional development will be required to support EL students and DLI instruction. She said the plan will be posted on the district’s curriculum and instruction web page after Board approval.
Trustee Firdos moved to approve the plan and Trustee Shedd seconded; the motion passed 5–0.
Board members asked implementation questions and emphasized the plan’s role in bringing family and site feedback into classroom practice. Ortega said updated ELPAC reporting and data analysis will be provided in the fall.
