Students take at least two academic subjects in their first language, and they take tests in that language. They also study English in English, said Gold, whose staff monitors compliance. Under Proposition 227, classes in the student's first language would end unless 20 parents in the same grade at the same school applied in person for a waiver each year. The district's superintendent would judge all waivers. Bilingual teachers aides often assist, or students have academic tutoring in their first language.
Students also take English in English.
Students who speak little English are taught academics in English, using the sheltered method. They get no tutoring, books or videos in their first language. Under Proposition 227, this class would be replaced by the year of English. These classes are mainly for native English speakers. Until last week, when the state school board voted to let districts decide whether to offer bilingual education, schools were out of compliance with state regulations if they did not help immigrant students with academics.