English Learner Education

English Learner Education Program Monitoring & Compliance

As part of its accountability system, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) conducts Targeted and Focused Monitoring (TFM) reviews to ensure that local education agencies meet key federal and state education requirements for English learner education. Each review examines select elements of federal and state laws, including mainly Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Equal Educational Opportunities Act of 1974 (EEOA), Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), Massachusetts General Laws c. 69, 71A, 71B, and 76 and Chapter 218 of the Acts of 2002.

All local education agencies in Massachusetts undergo a comprehensive TFM review every six years. TFM reviews provide districts with clear expectations, actionable feedback, and opportunities to strengthen equitable outcomes for multilingual learners, based on the 12 key criteria for English learner education (ELE) programs listed below. TFM reviews are tailored based on the local education agency's characteristics, such as English learner enrollment size and performance data.

  • The 12 ELE TFM Criteria at a Glance
    Summary of the 12 monitoring criteria. They represent the key areas local education agencies must address to ensure high-quality English Learner Education. For specific requirements regarding each criterion, please review the ELE Targeted and Focused Monitoring Guidance tool.

    Note: ELE criteria numbers were updated at the start of the 2025-2026 school year. This coding crosswalk shows previous and current number alignment:

    New ELE Criteria (SY 2025-26 and forward)Previous ELE Criteria Number
    ELE 1 Identification of ELs and FELsELE 3
    ELE 2 ELE Programs and ServicesELE 5
    ELE 3 Program Exit and ReadinessELE 6
    ELE 4 Parent EmpowermentELE 7
    ELE 5 Declining Entry to a Program ELE 8
    ELE 6 Parental NotificationELE 10
    ELE 7 Follow-Up SupportELE 13
    ELE 8 Licensure RequirementsELE 14
    ELE 9 Professional DevelopmentELE 15
    ELE 10 Records of ELsELE 18
    ELE 11 Annual English Language Proficiency AssessmentELE 1
    ELE 12 State Accountability AssessmentELE 2

  • Targeted and Focused Monitoring Guidance Tool (TFM TOOL)
    A user friendly tool designed to help districts effectively implement ELE requirements and support multilingual learners. TFM Process with ELEs listed as outlined above.

  • What to Expect from a TFM Review
    Explore the steps of the review process and learn how DESE partners with districts throughout each phase.

  • TFM Criteria and Indicators Checklist
    A practical tool for superintendents, ELE directors, principals, and district teams to support internal monitoring and continuous improvement.

  • ELE Director Checklist
    A companion resource to help ELE leaders track key activities, deadlines, and compliance requirements throughout the school year.

English Learner Coordinated Program Review (CPR) & TFM Reports

Responses to findings included in these reports are available from the respective local superintendent or charter school director. For questions regarding these reports, contact Sibel Hughes . For reports not listed below, see Public School Coordinated Program Review Reports.

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**Note: Most of the reports are over 1MB in size, please allow extra time for download.

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Problem Resolution System (PRS)

DESE is committed to resolving concerns promptly and ensuring that all students receive equitable educational opportunities. Individuals are encouraged to work with their school district first; however, PRS is available to assist anyone who believes a district may not be meeting its legal obligations.

DESE encourages schools and districts to take quick action to respond to questions and concerns about students' educational programs.

Problem Resolution System Office
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
135 Santilli Highway, Everett, MA 02149
Telephone: 781-338-3700
TTY: N.E.T. Relay: 1-800-439-2370
FAX: 781-338-3710
compliance@doe.mass.edu

DESE will make appropriate arrangements for individuals in need of interpretation and/or translation services.

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

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