English Language Development (ELD) Standards are used in tandem with the Common Core State Standards to give our English Learners (ELs) what they need to acquire language and gain access to grade-level standards. The California Department of Education requires that English learners receive explicit ELD instruction (Designated/Dedicated ELD Instruction), grouped by proficiency level. English learners also need access to grade-level standards. OUSD students are provided explicit instruction in a small group setting by a credentialed instructor at their home school. Additionally, OUSD teachers use research-based instructional strategies proven to be effective in helping English learners meet grade-level content during regular instructional time to minimize time out of the classroom.