VDOE: English Language Learner Education

English Learner Education
The purpose of this webpage is to provide important information and links to resources that support educators in providing equitable instruction and services to English Learners (ELs).

Divisions across the Commonwealth of Virginia serve over 105,000 ELs, who speak over 240 languages, and come from a variety of learning and cultural backgrounds. These students bring a unique set of assets that have the potential to enrich the experiences of all learners and educators.

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) works for the embodiment of an asset-based approach to educating ELs that honors their primary languages, background knowledge, and experiences.

Guidance & Technical Assistance Documents:

Educators of English Learners must follow requirements under both the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Title 3, Virginia special education regulations, and local policies or procedures.

The Regulations Governing Special Education Programs for Children with Disabilities in Virginia address requirements for evaluation and eligibility decision making as well as related services decision making by the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) team. Additional requirements from ESEA Title 3 must also be considered.