Structured English Immersion (SEI) Program

Programs for English Learners Home | Structured English Immersion | Dual Language Immersion | Developmental Bilingual | Transitional Bilingual

Structured English Immersion (SEI) is a language acquisition program for English learner (EL) students in which nearly all classroom instruction is provided in English, but with curriculum and a presentation designed for pupils who are learning English.

At minimum, a local educational agency (LEA) will offer SEI as a program option for EL students. Education Code Section 306 (c).

Program Participants:

• English learners (all levels)
• Non-EL students are typically enrolled in the same classroom

SEI-Specific Guidance

• Nearly All: LEAs define the term “nearly all” (in the above SEI definition). 
• Primary Language Support: Provide learning support to students in their primary languages to scaffold instruction and provide student access to content learning (this may include textbooks and other materials in students’ primary languages as needed).
• Primary Language Instruction: Courses in the primary language are permitted and may be beneficial to students in SEI programs.
• Offer the SEI program, at a minimum, at all grade levels (Kindergarten through Grade Twelve) within the district.

California Department of Education (CDE) Resources to Support SEI Program Implementation

English Language Arts (ELA)/English Language Development (ELD) Framework for California Public Schools, Kindergarten Through Grade Twelve (2015)
The ELA/ELD Framework provides guidance to LEAs and educators on the implementation of the state-adopted California Content Standards.

• Chapter Two (PDF): Essential Considerations in ELA/Literacy and ELD Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
• Chapter Nine (PDF): Access and Equity

English Language Development (ELD) Standards
This CDE web page includes the State Board of Education-adopted California ELD standards, ELD video series, information, and resources to assist LEAs in designing, implementing, and enhancing integrated and designated ELD instruction for EL students.

English Learner Roadmap
This CDE web page includes the California EL Roadmap Policy and a printable guide to assist LEAs to implement California's 21st century college-and-career-ready standards, curriculum, instruction programs, and assessments for EL students.

Improving Education for Multilingual and English Learner Students: Research to Practice (2020)
This publication provides current research and practice for educators at all levels to work with EL and multilingual learner students.

• Chapter Two (PDF): Asset-Based Pedagogy: Student, Family, and Community Engagement for the Academic and Social–Emotional Learning of Multilingual Students
• Chapter Five (PDF): Content Instruction with Integrated and Designated English Language Development in the Elementary Grades
• Chapter Six (PDF): Content and Language Instruction in Middle or High School: Promoting Educational Equity and Achievement Through Access and Meaningful Engagement