Official Site of The State of New Jersey

Students who enroll in a NJ school also bring their rich, cultural, and linguistic background into the classroom. Federal (Plyler v. Doe) and state laws (N.J.A.C. 6A:22-3.3) prohibit denying the enrollment of students in public schools based on immigration/visa status. LEAs should continue to enroll all students who are between the ages of 5 and 20 who are domiciled in the LEA or who are otherwise entitled to attend pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38.1, and the implementing regulations, N.J.A.C 6A:22-3.2, et. seq.

In New Jersey, a multilingual learner (ML) is defined as a student who is:

• Identified through the process set forth at N.J.A.C. 6A:15; and
• Developing proficiency in multiple languages and whose primary language is not English.

There is a multi-step process for the identification of multilingual learners (N.J.A.C. 6A:15-1.3). All students identified as a multilingual learner shall receive services in a language instructional education program (LIEP) unless a parent refuses placement in an LIEP. Students who need additional English language development can participate in an LIEP to help ensure that they attain English proficiency and meet academic achievement standards in a way teachers use their understanding of individuals differences and diverse cultures to enable each learner to meet high standards.

Students who are eligible to receive services in multiple programs are required to receive all services they are entitled to. Below is a table which identifies which student groups should be offered placement into an LIEP.

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