Unlocking Linguistic Superpowers: RCSD Honors Reclassified Students at 2024 Ceremony

In a heartwarming celebration of perseverance and linguistic accomplishment, Redwood City School District (RCSD) hosted its 2024 Reclassification Ceremony, honoring 200 students from all 12 district schools who have achieved English language proficiency. 

Parents, teachers, school administrators and teachers, and School Board Trustees gathered to recognize the students’ hard work and the support that made their success possible.

Reclassification marks the point at which students who begin their education classified as English Learners (ELs) demonstrate proficiency in English equivalent to their native English-speaking peers.

Students across RCSD speak more than 37 home languages, from Arabic to Vietnamese, reflecting the district's rich linguistic diversity. This milestone is a testament to the students’ dedication and the district’s commitment to fostering multilingual excellence.

Board of Trustees President Janet Lawson spoke directly to the students, emphasizing the magnitude of their achievement:

“You’ve mastered the English language while preserving and maintaining your home languages, a truly incredible accomplishment. Being multilingual is a superpower--it connects you to the world in a unique way, and it is something to be proud of.”

Turning to the parents, Lawson acknowledged their crucial role:

“You’ve been their guides, their cheerleaders, and their role models every step of the way. Your encouragement and belief in their success have been essential to this milestone.”

She also thanked teachers and staff, saying:

“Thank you for nurturing and empowering these students. Your dedication has helped them realize their potential and embrace the power of being multilingual. You are shaping futures and changing lives.”

Superintendent Dr. Baker engaged both students and families during the ceremony, asking what reclassification meant to them. One student summed it up simply as “achievement.” 

A parent from Adelante Selby Spanish Immersion School shared her pride in her child’s bilingual skills, saying:

“I feel proud that my child speaks both languages … it opens doors. It’s a great opportunity for him to speak both languages and not forget his native language.”

Reclassification is a multi-step process that begins with a Home Language Survey (HLS) completed by families upon enrolling in a California public school. Based on the survey, students may take the English Language Proficiency Assessment for California (ELPAC). English Learners (ELs) then receive targeted instruction in English Language Development (ELD) and are assessed annually. Students reclassify as Reclassified Fluent English Proficient (RFEP) once they demonstrate English fluency and meet state criteria.

The evening concluded with reclassified students proudly walking across the stage to applause and handshakes, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their academic journey. RCSD remains committed to supporting students as they continue to excel in their studies and beyond.

Renowned for its expertise in language acquisition, RCSD offers robust English development services as well as language immersion programs in Spanish and Mandarin.