English Learner Education

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) ensures educational equity and access for English learners (ELs) through high-quality language instruction. We support local educational agencies (LEAs) as they develop, implement and evaluate research-based language instruction education programs for English learners to attain English proficiency and achieve state academic content standards. We facilitate academic excellence for English learners by promoting professional development, providing technical assistance, administering state and federal language education programs, and establishing measures of accountability.

Minnesota Standardized English Learner Procedures

The following procedures must be used by all districts and charter schools in the identification, entrance and exit of English learners.

Minnesota Bilingual and Multilingual Seals and World Language Proficiency Certificates

Minnesota districts and charter schools may award Minnesota bilingual and multilingual seals and world language proficiency certificates to certain high school students upon their graduation. These students are in grades 10, 11 or 12 and demonstrate the required levels of language proficiency on languages other than English, including American Sign Language (ASL) and American Indian (indigenous) languages. Minnesota State (formerly MnSCU) will award college credit to enrolling students with bilingual and multilingual seals and world language proficiency certificates. Students must request college credit within three academic years of graduation from high school and upon enrollment in a Minnesota State college or university.