Multilingual Learners: JCPS serves over 20,000 identified Multilingual Learners (MLs) within its K-12 program. It is essential that all MLs, including newcomer MLs who are in their first year of attending a U.S. school, have the opportunity to participate in the Defenses of Learning. A team, such as the Program Service Plan Committee, can select one or more success skills that best align with the needs of each ML. For ideas and scaffolding to assist students in defending their learning, please refer to the Journey of Success Playbook, specifically pages 23-24.

Exceptional Child Education: JCPS serves over 13,000 Exceptional Child Education (ECE) students within the K-12 program. It is essential that all ECE students have the opportunity to participate in the Defenses of Learning, including those who require significant support. Each student’s individualized needs should be considered, utilizing the Specially Designed Instruction and Accommodations specified in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). For ideas and scaffolding to assist students in defending their learning, please refer to the Journey of Success Playbook, specifically pages 23-24. Additionally, alternative assessment and diploma students may use the modified artifacts found on page 23 to showcase their learning.

To support equitable access for all students, we’ve curated resources for multilingual learners and students with exceptional needs. Here’s what you’ll find below:

• Translated Success Skills in the top five languages: Arabic, Kinyarwanda, Nepali, Spanish, and Swahili.

• Translated Artifact Reflection Prompts: These prompts are organized by grade band in the top five languages: Arabic, Kinyarwanda, Nepali, Spanish, and Swahili.

• Modified Rubrics for each grade band to ensure accessibility and inclusivity in scoring

• Defense of Learning Resource Guide for ECE Students: To provide tailored supports and accommodations.

• Sentence Frames: To scaffold language use during reflection and presentations

• Can Do Portrait to highlight what multilingual learners can do at various levels of language proficiency

These resources are designed to help all students engage in meaningful learning experiences and confidently showcase their growth throughout the Journey to Success.