[CA] CALPADS Update Flash #300 – Reclassifying RFEP Students in Summer

The California Department of Education (CDE) has issued CALPADS Update Flash #300 to reiterate and clarify procedures for reclassifying English learners (ELs) as Reclassified Fluent English Proficient (RFEP) during the summer, especially when students are not actively enrolled. This update reaffirms previous guidance from Flash #277 and includes current timeline references for the 2024–25 and 2025–26 academic years.

Purpose of the Flash

Local educational agencies (LEAs) are encouraged to make timely reclassification decisions to ensure appropriate instructional support from the first day of school. However, due to testing result delays, reclassification may occur during summer breaks, posing challenges for accurate CALPADS data reporting.

RFEP Criteria

To reclassify a student as RFEP, LEAs must confirm the student has met the following four criteria:

• Score of 4 on the Summative ELPAC or 3 on the Alternate ELPAC

• Positive teacher evaluation

• Parent consultation and approval

• Demonstration of basic English skills comparable to proficient students

Important Reporting Rules

• The RFEP Start Date must overlap with the student’s enrollment period to avoid triggering the CALPADS SELA0652 error.

• All reclassification records must be certified in CALPADS before the End-of-Year (EOY) 3 submission closes to be included in the official Annual Reclassification Rate.

Guidance by Scenario

Here are key points from the guidance, grouped by scenario:

• Scenario 1:

  • Reclassified while still enrolled

  • Use the signature date on the reclassification form

  • Counts in current year’s EOY 3

• Scenario 2:

  • Reclassified after school ends, no re-enrollment

  • Use last day of prior enrollment

  • Still counts in current year’s EOY 3

• Scenario 3:

  • Reclassified during summer break before re-enrollment

  • Use last day of prior enrollment

  • Counts in current year’s EOY 3

• Scenario 4:

  • Reclassified after July 1, student re-enrolled at same school

  • Use signature date

  • Counts in next year’s EOY 3

• Scenario 5:

  • Reclassified after July 1, new school enrollment

  • Use signature date

  • Counts in next year’s EOY 3

Final Reminders for LEAs

• Be proactive: Reclassify before the school year ends if possible.

• If reclassifying in summer, carefully set the RFEP start date to overlap with enrollment.

• Submit and certify data before the EOY 3 deadline to ensure accurate public reporting.

For detailed table reference and scenarios, consult the full CALPADS Update Flash #300 or the previous Flash #277.

Learn more about how the MeasureED Team provides CALPADS Support by connecting with a CALPADS Consultant today!