All students who register with a school in Washington State are asked to identify their primary language by completing the Home Language Survey. If the response is a language other than English, the student is screened with the state-approved language proficiency placement test.  Based on the results, the student may qualify for ML services. 

Students in Washington state are screened by a trained proctor to determine if multilingual learner services should be provided. The language proficiency assessment determines a student’s overall ability to communicate and understand English through speaking, listening, reading and writing. Students whose screener score indicates they need support in English language development are identified as a Multilingual Learner.

Learn More About the WIDA Screener

Most students who qualify for the ML program are served in general education classrooms or the Dual Language Program where they receive support for English language development. In some cases, especially in  middle and high schools, students may go to special language development classes. Types of ML support and services vary by student need and grade level.

In recognizing that home language is a valuable asset, we offer a Spanish-English Dual Language Program that promotes bilingualism, biliteracy, grade-level academic achievement in English and Spanish, and socio-cultural competence. Many Kennewick schools are supported by bilingual teachers and paraeducators who speak Spanish, with additional language support available in some schools for Russian, Arabic, and Karen. These paraeducators use students’ home languages to clarify instructions and help them engage more effectively in English-language instruction. 

In addition, Westgate Elementary offers specialized support for multilingual learners who are new to English. Students at Westgate represent a rich diversity of languages and cultures, and families may choose to enroll their children in this unique, welcoming program designed to support newcomers in their language and academic development.

Kennewick has a Spanish-English Dual Language program at:

• ​ECEAP, Pre-K
• Amistad, Elementary School
• Eastgate, Elementary School
• Fuerza, Elementary School
• Park, Middle School
• Highlands, Middle School

ML students with IEPs receive coordinated services that meet both their  language development goals and special education needs. The Special Education and Multilingual Education departments collaborate to ensure educators have the training and tools they need to ensure that both language and special needs are met. Teachers provide multiple ways for students to access content, express their understanding, and engage in meaningful classroom activities. 

Students may qualify to take the adaptive English Language Proficiency assessment, WIDA Alternate ACCESS as determined in their IEP.

All Dual Language schools in Kennewick offer resources and support for students with disabilities. Specific services and programs may vary by school and are tailored to meet individual student needs as identified in their IEPs.

All ML students take the English language proficiency assessment once a year in the Winter. The results are used to plan instruction, identify the supports students need to access academic content, and set language development goals for the year. These scores help educators monitor progress in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English, and guide decisions about targeted instruction and services.

Scores are made available to families after testing results are received from the Washington State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

• ACCESS for ELLs Parent Letters – WIDA – Website (available in multiple languages)
• What is ACCESS for ELLs? WIDA Parent Resource (available in multiple languages)
• ACCESS for ELLs Understanding Your Child’s Scores (multiple languages)

Exited ML students will continue to be monitored for four years to ensure their academic success. Students who are not at standard, based on state and district assessments as well as teacher reported progress, will receive additional support. Students, families and teachers may receive support in a variety of ways depending on student needs.

KSD students in grades 9–12 can earn up to four high school World Language and/or elective credits by demonstrating proficiency in a language other than English—including American Sign Language. To qualify, students must show skills in all four language domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This opportunity is also available to Running Start students.

Additionally, 8th grade students in the Dual Language program take the STAMP assessment in Spanish. Based on their performance, they may earn up to four high school World Language and/or elective credits that count toward graduation

All parents and guardians have the right to an interpreter for any school-related communication, including parent-teacher conferences, IEP meetings, and other important conversations. Under state and federal law, schools are required to ensure that all parents have the right to information about their child's education in a language they can understand.

We provide Language Access to ensure successful communication within our district.

A: Yes. Kennewick School District is committed to supporting Native American students through culturally responsive and inclusive practices. We work to accurately identify Native American students and ensure their heritage is honored and valued. In addition, our Tribal Collaboration and Education Committee meets three times a year to work toward these goals. 

As part of our curriculum, we integrate the Since Time Immemorial (STI) tribal sovereignty curriculum into social studies instruction across all grade levels. Additionally, Native American students who need academic support—based on district and state assessments or teacher feedback—receive assistance that is both personalized and culturally affirming, recognizing their cultural identity as a strength.