How to Register an English Learner Student
If English is not the first language for you and your family, your child should be enrolled through the Office of English Learners. During the enrollment, your child will be assessed to determine if they are eligible for English Learner services.
Your child can be assessed and registered for school in person at several locations.
In-Person Registration for EL Students
The registration and assessment process for families with Non-English Language Background, also known as NELB, takes place in one of four EL Student Registration and Assessment Centers.
Walk-ins and appointments are accepted from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.
- Office of English Learners, 615 Fessey Park Road, Nashville, 37204
- Hispanic Family Foundation, 3955 Nolensville Pike, Suite 107, Nashville, 37221
- Antioch Enrollment Center, 1900 Hobson Pike, Antioch, 37013
- Casa Azafrán, 2195 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, 37211
Call or Email for Registration Help
If a language other than English is spoken at home and you need an appointment, call 615-259-8608 or email English Learners Registration for an appointment.
Once your child has been registered for the EL program, your entire family will be eligible to participate in the wide variety of programs we offer to EL families.
Registration Requirements
Bring the following to your appointment:
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Student's proof of birth (birth certificate, I-94, passport, visa)
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Immunization record on TN Format.
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Student's current physical examination performed in the U.S. that is less than a (1) year old.
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Proof of residence in parent/guardian name, dated within the past 30 days (Utility bill or lease agreement, mortgage statement, etc.)
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One parent/legal guardian must be present with picture ID.
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Information regarding previous Special Education services, if applicable.
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School transcripts if available.
What to Expect at Registration
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Plan to be in the office for 1-1.5 hours (per student) to complete the testing and registration process. In special cases, the process may take longer, so plan your schedule accordingly. The reception area is small and needs to be quiet for testing. Please limit the number of family members you bring to the appointment.
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Staff will make copies of necessary documents for school.
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Staff will interview the parent(s) regarding the student's previous education.
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Your child will be given an English proficiency test in writing, reading, speaking, and comprehension.
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If necessary, you will be offered English Learner Services for your child.
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You will be given information about the school to which your child will be assigned based on the family's address.
Registration requirements translated: Arabic | Somali | Nepali
Required Home Language Survey
Parents or legal guardians must, by federal law, complete the Home Language Survey to determine the eligibility of EL services.
A parent/guardian must complete a home language survey when the student first enters MNPS. The form must be completed in its entirety, signed, and dated. If the first three questions of the survey indicate the student speaks another language or that another language is spoken at home, the parent/guardian should make an appointment with the International Student Registration Center at the EL Office by calling (615) 259-8608.
Then, based on the information provided in this survey, we will determine if the student needs to be assessed for English language proficiency.
Students Enrolling from Other High Schools
High school students who are English Learners enrolling in Metro Nashville Public Schools from a United States high school will be enrolled in the last grade completed or attended at previous school.