Schools' Civil Rights Obligations to English Learner Students and Limited English Proficient Parents

The obligation not to discriminate based on race, color, or national origin requires public schools to take affirmative steps to ensure that limited English proficient (LEP) students, now more commonly known as English Learner (EL) students or English Language Learners (ELLs), can meaningfully participate in educational programs and services, and to communicate information to LEP parents in a language they can understand.

The following materials include information for students and parents, OCR guidance and resources for education officials about their obligations to EL students and LEP parents, and added resources with related information.

For Students and Parents

For Education Officials

OCR Policies

Self-Evaluation Materials

Enforcement Activities

Related Resources

U.S. Department of Education Resources

U.S. Department of Education Funded Resources and Partnerships