Center for the Transformation of Schools

This brief presents key findings on English-Learner classified students (ELs) in California and their reclassification, offering valuable insights for policymakers and educators. Researchers depict trends in English-Learner classified student reclassification rates. Key findings include: The number of Reclassified Fluent English Proficient (RFEP) students has shown an upward trend, with an increase from 183,272 in 2017 to 193,899 in 2018. The overall enrollment of ELs has declined from 1,332,405 in 2017 to 1,062,290 in 2021. The percentage of ELs in the overall enrollment has decreased from 21.4% in 2017 to 17.7% in 2021. The reclassification rate for ELs has varied, with the highest rate of 14.6% in 2018 and the lowest rate of 6.9% in 2021. In the top 10 largest districts, the proportion of ELs who are Long-Term English-Learner classified students (LTELs) ranges from 13.1% to 21.9%. The percentage of Ever-ELs who are RFEP in the top 10 districts ranges from 37.1% to 53.9%. This brief is part of The Landscape of Language Learners in California’s MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) series. Learn more on the CTS website.