Hundreds of Merced students celebrate English learning milestone

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Hundreds of students were recognized Saturday for a significant accomplishment.

Nearly 500 students in the Merced City School District were reclassified this year from "English learners' to "proficient in English."

A parade was held at Reyes Elementary to celebrate about 60 students who met the requirements there.

In order to be reclassified, students have to achieve certain test scores, be evaluated by their teachers, and their parents or guardians are invited to a one on one meeting.

Administrators say it's an important step for students who come into the district with a primary language other than English.