Multilingual Learner Fast Facts

The Multilingual Learner Department seeks to help multilingual learners (MLs) attain English proficiency and achieve at high levels in core academic subjects such as math, science, social studies, and language arts.

Students who speak a language at home other than English enroll in CMS at their home school (unless they are accepted into a magnet program). Language Instruction Educational Program (LIEP) services are provided for all students qualified as multilingual learner (MLs) based on the state-identified English language proficiency test (WIDA Screener)

The P.A.C.E. Framework builds the capacity of educators to maximize academic achievement for multilingual learners. P.A.C.E. incorporates effective, evidence/research-based instructional strategies and digital tools to support students in mastering content and language. P.A.C.E. disrupts systems of inequity by promoting access to grade level standards for multilingual learners through supportive instruction while maintaining the integrity of the NC Standard Course of Study academic standards.

• 
  Meaningful Engagement
  Educators will achieve high levels of engagement through deep discussions and student interactions.
• 
  Language and Content Integration
  Educators will foster language development integrated with content learning, not in isolation.
• 
  High Challenge, Intentional Support
  Educators will engage students in highly challenging, grade-level instruction by focusing on rigor, tolerating ambiguity, and fostering productive struggle.
• 
  Amplify, Not Simplify
  Educators will increase accessibility to content topics and standards through the use of language supports and refrain from simplifying the task which leads to reduced rigor and negative connotation of the student learning experience. 
• 
  All Are Assets
  Educators will create a culturally responsive classroom environment in which all students are recognized as assets.Educators will challenge systems and practices that are inequitable.
• 
  Reach Beyond the Classroom
  Educators will build collaborative relationships with students’ families and the community to meet students’ needs.

LIEP services are provided at all schools, including magnet schools. Teachers use the World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA) English Language Development standards to plan and deliver instruction. Learning & Language Acquisition receives local, state, and federal funding to support program initiatives which align with federal Title III requirements. ML Committees have been established at all schools to ensure that students receive appropriate language assistance programs, testing accommodations, instructional supports, and program placements.

Additional LIEP Services

• 
  Digitally Integrated Curriculum and Tools for MLs
  The digitally integrated curriculum and tools allow opportunities for all multilingual learners to develop English proficiency and grade-level literacy through the creation of digital products that showcase personalized learning and creativity. 
• 
  Students with Interrupted Formal Education (SIFE)
  Individualized support with specialized materials, language instructional software, and support from qualified staff are provided to students whose schooling has been interrupted.
• 
  Dual Language / Two-Way Immersion
  Students develop high levels of language proficiency and literacy in both English and a partner language.

CMS Enrollment as of November 2025:

• Language Minority Students……….…45,291
• Multilingual Learner (MLs) K-12…....29,314
• Native Languages Spoken…..….........177
• Countries Represented…………………...174

Spanish........................................................................35,816

Russian........................................................................1,194

Vietnamese.................................................................864

Portuguese..................................................................846

French...........................................................................785

Telugu...........................................................................728

Egyptian Arabic.......................................................725

Hindi/Indian/Urdu....................................................546

Tamil............................................................................446

Burmese/Myanmar bhasa...................................426