English Language Learner Department (ELL):
The English Language Learner (ELL) Department offers English as a Second Language (ESL) programs for students who speak another language and are learning English. The goal is to help beginning English Language Learners (ELLs) acquire English rapidly. These services are available in all schools. For more information about ELL programs, please contact the ELL Department at  651-767-8320. In addition, SPPS offers several different types of ESL programs for recently arrived immigrants and Spanish-speaking Latino students. These programs are described below:

Language Academy (LA):
Language Academies (LA) are for recently arrived immigrant students in grades 1-6 who speak very little English. Each LA  classroom is comprised of both ELLs and native English speakers. ELL students work on the same assignments as their classmates with assistance from ELL teachers and bilingual educational assistants.

Latino Consent Decree (LCD):
The Latino Consent Decree (LCD) program in Saint Paul Public Schools is designed for Spanish-speaking students who need  additional academic support. LCD students are taught in English with Spanish support as needed, ensuring that students have the essential skills and knowledge needed for graduation. LCD students also learn about Latino culture and history.

English Language Center (ELC):
The English Language Centers (ELC) provide social and academic language support to recently arrived ELLs in grades 7-12. The program eases the transition for newcomer students while allowing them to work toward graduation. ELC students spend
approximately 75 percent of the school day in English language classes, developing English skills while they learn subjects such as geography, science, health and math.

International Academy-LEAP (IA-LEAP):
International Academy-LEAP is an alternative high school designed for new ELLs ages 14-21. Students take English language and content-area classes to improve their English skills and earn a high school diploma. While instruction in English is the main focus of classes at IA-LEAP, native language support services are available to students and parents. See description in Alternative High Schools.