Emergent Bilingual Support in Houston ISD: Comprehensive Services, Resources, and Programs

Houston Independent School District (HISD) is home to one of the most diverse student populations in the United States. As a district that serves tens of thousands of Emergent Bilingual (EB) students, we are committed to delivering structured, inclusive, and culturally responsive services that accelerate English language proficiency while valuing and nurturing students’ home languages and cultures.

What Is an Emergent Bilingual Student?

Emergent Bilingual students are learners who speak a language other than English at home and are developing English proficiency. In HISD, this population is supported through a robust array of services aligned with state and federal guidelines under the Texas Education Code (TEC) Chapter 89 and Title III of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA).

HISD Language Programs for Emergent Bilinguals

1. Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Programs

Our Dual Language Immersion programs are designed to develop full bilingualism and biliteracy. Students receive instruction in both English and the partner language predominantly Spanish using a 50/50 or 90/10 model.

Key Benefits:

• Academic achievement in both languages

• Cognitive flexibility

• Increased career opportunities

• Cultural competence

2. Transitional Bilingual/Early Exit

This model supports students in their native language as they gradually transition to English instruction. The goal is to promote early proficiency in English without compromising academic success.

3. English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs

Our ESL programs cater to EB students who speak a variety of home languages. Instruction is delivered in English, with strategies designed to scaffold learning and foster rapid language acquisition.

Identification, Assessment, and Placement Process

Every student entering HISD is required to complete a Home Language Survey (HLS). If a language other than English is indicated, the student is assessed using the Pre-LAS, LAS Links, or TELPAS, depending on grade level and educational history.

Placement decisions are made by the Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC), which includes educators, administrators, and family representation. The LPAC ensures that placement complies with all federal and state requirements and is tailored to meet each student’s linguistic and academic needs.

Ongoing Language Proficiency Monitoring

HISD implements continuous progress monitoring through the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS). This annual assessment evaluates listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English. Results inform instructional adjustments and reclassification readiness.

Students may exit the EB program once they meet specific criteria established by TEA, including:

• Proficiency in TELPAS composite scores

• Passing STAAR scores

• LPAC committee approval

Family and Community Engagement

We believe families are central to academic success. HISD offers:

• Parent training workshops

• Multilingual communication

• Language-specific family liaisons

• Cultural awareness events

Additionally, we collaborate with community partners to offer adult ESL classes and bilingual family literacy programs, creating language-rich environments at home.

Professional Development for Educators

We invest in our teachers through targeted professional development:

• Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP)

• ELPS Toolkit training

• Dual Language pedagogy

• Culturally Sustaining Teaching Practices

These ensure educators are well-equipped to provide equitable, high-quality instruction across all grade levels.

Equitable Access and Support Services

We ensure that Emergent Bilingual students have full access to:

• Gifted and Talented (G/T) Programs

• Special Education Services

• Advanced Academics

• Career and Technical Education (CTE)

All services are delivered in a linguistically appropriate manner, ensuring no barriers impede student achievement.

Data-Driven Instruction and Accountability

Using disaggregated student data, we:

• Track EB performance across content areas

• Adjust instructional supports based on growth metrics

• Report to stakeholders for transparency and continuous improvement

All school campuses use Language Allocation Plans (LAPs) to map out language-of-instruction schedules and instructional staffing by language program.

Vision for Multilingual Excellence

Our goal is not only to teach English, but to cultivate bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural leaders. By valuing home languages, we position our students as global citizens prepared to thrive in a competitive, multilingual world.

Final Word: Empowering Through Language

We do not view linguistic diversity as a challenge to overcome it is a strength to embrace. At HISD, we champion language equity by investing in research-based programming, inclusive practices, and a community-driven vision. Every Emergent Bilingual student in our care receives the support needed to flourish linguistically, academically, and socially.