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Multilingual Learner Program

The Tahoma School District Multilingual Learner (MLL) program helps students bridge the gap between their home language and English so they can access core instruction in their classrooms. Our goal is for every family to feel welcome and in partnership with their child's education in Tahoma School District. 

Elementary School Services

In our elementary schools, we offer a combination of pull-out and push-in services.  Pull-out services are where students leave their classroom and go to the MLL room to work on the areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Our push-in services are where the Multilingual teacher goes into the classroom to support the student while they are receiving instruction from their classroom teacher.

Middle School Services

At both middle schools, we offer two MLL support options- English Language Development (ELD) and push-in services during core classes (English, Math, or Science).  Some MLL students will also receive an additional support through an ELD-specific Stretch class based on their most current WIDA ACCESS annual data and/or their date of entry into the USA.

High School Services

At Tahoma High School, we offer two MLL supports options - English Language Development class (ELD) or push-in services during core classes (English, Math, or Science) based on their most current WIDA annual data.

Our Program Offers

Screening for services

The screener helps us determine the student's proficiency level in English. If they qualify, the parent will receive a notification of services, and will begin to receive services from a staff member at their school.

Translation services

We assist with arranging translations for any student or parent need, including conferences, IEP meetings, or problem-solving meetings. Additionally, our district's communication tool, ParentSquare, has language translation services based on the user's chosen language preferences.

Language Line is a phone interpretation service that teachers can use to communicate with families. Tahoma Staff Members—Please visit the Staff Hub to see the instructions for accessing Language Line.


OSPI—Multilingual Education Program

Contact Information

Carrie Detamore
Multilingual Learner Program Coordinator
(425) 413-3400

for your knowledge...

All students who qualify for MLL services are required to test annually to see if they have reached English proficiency and no longer qualify.

Testing takes place during an 8-week testing window that starts in January each year. Results are usually back to our district at the before the end of the school year.