Language Assessment Center (LAC)

Welcome to the Fresno Unified School District’s Language Assessment Center (LAC). We support families and schools by assessing students’ English language proficiency and helping determine the most appropriate instructional program for academic success.

Step 1: Enrollment & Home Language Survey

At the time of a student’s initial enrollment in a California public school, families complete a Home Language Survey (HLS). This one-time process identifies students who may need to be assessed for English language development. Parents/guardians will answer the following 4 language questions:

• Which language did your son or daughter learn when he or she first began to speak?
• Which language does your son or daughter most frequently use at home?
• Which language do you use most frequently to speak to your son or daughter?
• Name the language most often spoken by adults at home.

If a language other than English is indicated on any of the first three questions, the student is referred for assessment.

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Step 2: English Language Proficiency Assessment

Students are assessed using the Initial English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC) within 30 calendar days of enrollment.
The ELPAC measures skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Based on results, students are classified as:

• English Learner (EL), or
• Initial Fluent English Proficient (IFEP)

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Step 3: Additional Language Information

For students identified as English Learners, the district may collect additional information about the student’s home language to better support instruction. This may include a primary language assessment.

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Step 4: Parent Notification

Families receive written notification of results within 30 calendar days, including their child’s classification and recommended program options.

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Step 5: Program Placement

Students are placed in an instructional program based on assessment results. Options may include:

• Structured English Immersion (SEI)
• English Language Mainstream
• Dual Language Immersion

Parents are active partners in this decision-making process.

Our team is committed to making the assessment process clear, timely, and supportive. If you have questions, the Language Assessment Center is here to assist you every step of the way.