The Nevada Department of Education (NDE) is dedicated to helping school districts and charter schools provide a high-quality education to English Learners (ELs) and immigrant students.

When a student enrolls in a Nevada school, we look at whether a language other than English is their first language, or if it is commonly spoken at home or with friends. If so, the student takes an English language screening assessment. Students who score below a 4.5 out of 6.0 qualify for English learner services to help them succeed.

Nevada’s English learners bring a wealth of diverse languages, cultures, and unique assets to our learning communities. By law, school districts must provide tailored instruction to help these students master both the English language and state academic standards.

To effectively serve this diverse population, we monitor progress and provide targeted support across several distinct student groups:

• Newcomers: Students who have been in the U.S. for less than two years.
• Short-Term ELs: Students who have been receiving EL support for fewer than six years.
• Long-Term ELs: Students who have received EL support for six or more years without yet exiting the program.
• Immigrant Students: Individuals aged 3 through 21 who were born outside of the U.S. and have attended U.S. schools for less than three academic years.

To promote educational equity, the NDE provides funding (subgrants) and hands-on guidance to local schools. We support districts by:

• Enhancing Instruction: Helping schools identify and use the most effective teaching methods for English learners.
• Standardizing the Process: Creating consistent, statewide procedures for how students enter and exit the EL program.
• Empowering Educators: Providing high-quality professional development for teachers and administrators to improve instruction and assessment.
• Engaging Families: Strengthening the connection between schools, parents, families, and the community.