ELA is captured using the EN component. ELA activity, including English as a Second Language (ESL), assists individuals who are English language learners improve skills in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension of the English language that leads to:
•Attainment of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent; or
•Transition to postsecondary education and training; or
•Employment
The EN component may be opened for a maximum of 150 days at a time with the ability to update on expiration.
For DSHS ORIA Contracted Providers
ORIA Providers can use approved BE component for ELA only when providing ELA to participants to gain language skills needed to obtain and keep employment. Follow these requirements to approve BE for ELA:
•Determine the recipient’s initial ELA level by administering the Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System (CASAS) test for reading and listening, and ORIA-approved assessments for writing and speaking, and
•CASAS-qualified staff that has knowledge and experience in applying Washington ELA Adult Learning Standards skill indicators for writing and speaking testing must perform the ELA assessment scoring. CASAS recertification training must be completed once every two years.
ELA instructors must have the following:
A bachelor’s degree in Linguistics, Education or related field, Liberal Studies, or Liberal Arts, with certification or endorsement in (TESOL/TESL/TEFL); and or a minimum of three years teaching ELA to adults; or have a combination of credentials and experience that are approved by the community college or by the ORIA Program Manager.
ORIA Providers must:
•Provide ELA Classroom instruction and document weekly class attendance.
•Provide ELA classroom instructional services in an appropriate teaching and learning environment.
•Utilize the College and Career Readiness Standards for Adult Education as the basis for learning goals and measures.
•Utilize curriculum that incorporates content and language to prepare participants for the workforce.