An Overview of English Learner Reclassification Policy

This report provides a policy overview of English learner (EL) reclassification approaches used by U.S. state education agencies (SEAs). It catalogs and compares the range of reclassification models states employ, highlights limitations of current approaches, and offers recommendations to help SEAs design more equitable and effective reclassification policies for K–12 EL students.

Released May 2026