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English Learner Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education

Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education

Who are SLIFE Students?

Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE) are English learners who have experienced disruptions or limitations in their schooling. These challenges may result from living in remote areas, limited transportation, cultural or societal barriers, the need to work to support family, or experiences with natural disasters, war, or civil conflict. Many SLIFE students are recent arrivals to U.S. schools and may require additional support to succeed academically.

PWCS Commitment

Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) is dedicated to ensuring equitable access to high-quality instruction for all learners. Each English learner identified as SLIFE will have a personalized SLIFE Support Plan and a dedicated SLIFE Support Team. This team will regularly monitor the student’s academic progress and implement appropriate interventions to ensure success. The support plan is designed to address individual needs and promote equitable access to high-quality instruction, in alignment with PWCS’ commitment to supporting SLIFE students. Our goal is to support SLIFE students so they can graduate on time with the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind necessary to create a thriving future for themselves and their communities.

SLIFE Identification Criteria

According to the Virginia Department of Education, a student is identified as SLIFE if all the following criteria are met:

  • The student enters or re-enters any U.S. school at or after age eight.
  • The student is identified at English language proficiency (ELP) level 1 or 2.
  • The student has at least two years less consecutive or cumulative schooling than similar-age peers.

Virginia’s Commitment to SLIFE

Virginia has enacted legislation to ensure equitable educational opportunities for SLIFE students. These laws provide clear definitions, reporting requirements, and accountability measures to help school divisions meet the unique needs of SLIFE learners. For more information, see SB 433 and SB 933.