The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) provides statewide leadership in promoting high quality education for English language learners (ELLs). Often referred to as limited English proficient (LEP) students, the MDE prefers the term English language learners (ELLs).
The purpose of the Title III program is to ensure that limited English proficient (LEP) children, including immigrant children and youth, master English and meet the same rigorous standards for academic achievement as all children are expected to meet, including meeting challenging State academic content and student academic achievement standards by developing high-quality language instruction educational programs.
Definition of English Language Learners (ELL)
Students who are English Language Learners are classified as Limited English Proficient (LEP) or Immigrant Children
and Youth. Those classifications are defined below:
The MDE wishes to identify major issues affecting the education of English Language learners, and to assist and support local school districts' efforts to emphasize high academic standards, school accountability, professional development and parent involvement.
250 Carter Ave | P.O Box 939 | New Albany, Ms 38652
phone: 662-534-1960 | Fax: 662-534-1961