Florida School District Commits to Improving English Instruction for Students, Resolves Case with Justice Department
The Clay County School District in north Florida has reached an agreement with the U.S. Justice Department to enhance its English language instruction for non-native English-speaking students. This settlement comes after federal investigators found that the district had failed to provide adequate language services to help these students become fluent in English. Furthermore, the district was found to have neglected to provide important school information to parents who didn’t speak English in a language they could understand. The investigation also revealed that English learner students were unable to meaningfully participate in many classes and were not receiving the necessary academic and behavioral support.
U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida, Roger Handberg, emphasized the importance of school districts offering appropriate services to English learner students to overcome language barriers. He expressed satisfaction with the Clay County School District’s commitment to meet the language needs of its English learners, allowing them to fully engage in the educational experience provided by the district.
The Clay County School District cooperated fully with the Justice Department’s investigation and, upon receiving the investigation’s results, pledged to improve its services for English learner students. Located southwest of Jacksonville, the district revealed that it was initially approached in 2019 regarding support services for English Speakers of Other Languages. The district maintains that it is continuously working to ensure that its teachers are certified and trained in strategies that support students effectively.
Under the terms of the agreement, the district will implement modifications to its practices, ensuring proper assessment and identification of English learner students. These students will receive prompt language services and be given equal opportunities to benefit from academic and behavioral support. The district will also ensure that all teachers are qualified, trained, and adequately supported with resources to facilitate English learner students’ fluency in English and comprehension of coursework. Additionally, the district commits to providing language translation and interpretation services for parents who are not proficient in English.
Over the course of the next four school years, the Justice Department will oversee the district’s implementation of the settlement. This monitoring will ensure the school district’s compliance and the successful execution of the agreed-upon improvements.
The Clay County School District’s initiative to rectify its English instruction for non-native English-speaking students demonstrates its commitment to providing an inclusive educational environment. With the implementation of this settlement, English learner students will have enhanced support and resources, ultimately facilitating their academic success and integration into the district’s educational community.
