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Waxahachie ISD reports growth in emergent bilingual population; dual-language and ESL programs show gains
Summary
District staff reported emerging bilinguals comprise about 10.4% of students, with 403 students in the bilingual dual-language preK-8 program and 613 ESL students; staff highlighted reclassification counts, secondary credit accrual in Spanish, and a 91% graduation rate for emergent bilinguals.
The board received an update on dual-language and ESL programs from Solis and coordinators, who described increasing numbers of emergent bilingual (EB) students and program outcomes.
Key metrics presented included an EB population of approximately 10.4% for the year, 403 students enrolled in the bilingual dual-language preK-8 program, and 613 students served in ESL programs. Staff reported 81 parent denials for dual-language enrollment and noted the state passed a law permitting support for students whose parents initially denied services.
At the secondary level, staff reported that some students had earned Spanish course credit early through performance-based assessments: among certain cohorts, students earned Spanish I and Spanish II credits before high school. Reclassification statistics were presented for grades 6-8 showing several students meeting criteria to exit EB status.
Performance measures highlighted included improved STAR/EOC results at the high-school level and a reported 91% graduation rate for the emergent bilingual subgroup, with a dropout rate of 1%. Staff credited targeted interventions and collaboration among coordinators and teachers for academic progress.
The report also outlined Title 3 obligations (parent engagement, family and community engagement, and supplemental activities) and described community events and summer programming that support EB students and families.
Trustees asked clarifying questions about program enrollment and screening logistics; staff said they would continue monitoring progress and outreach.
