ESSA Tier 4 Evidence Certified Chinese Language Learning for US K-12 Schools
The only ESSA-certified AI Chinese learning platform eligible for Title I-IV & ESSER federal education funding.
Federal Funding Eligibility
As an ESSA Tier 4 certified product, Turtle Learn qualifies for multiple federal education funding streams.
Title I
Title I, Part A
Improving Basic Programs for Disadvantaged Students
Title II
Title II, Part A
Supporting Effective Instruction
Title III
Title III, Part A
English Language Acquisition
Title IV
Title IV, Part A
Student Support & Academic Enrichment
ESSER
Elementary & Secondary School Emergency Relief
COVID-19 Relief Education Funding
Need help with your funding proposal? Our team can provide documentation and evidence summaries to support your grant application.
What is ESSA Tier 4 Certification?
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires schools to use evidence-based interventions when spending federal funds. Products are rated across four evidence tiers.
Tier 4: Demonstrates a Rationale means the product is based on high-quality research findings and has a logic model demonstrating how it will improve student outcomes.
Turtle Learn achieved this certification through rigorous third-party review of our research foundation, pedagogical approach, and learning outcomes data.
Research-based pedagogical framework
Logic model for student outcomes
Third-party evidence review
Ongoing efficacy studies
Built for US Schools
Turtle Learn serves diverse Chinese language programs across the United States.
Heritage Chinese Programs
Support heritage speakers with differentiated content that matches their speaking proficiency while building literacy skills.
Mandarin Immersion Schools
Complement immersion instruction with AI-powered practice and assessment tools.
World Language Classes
Engage beginners with gamified learning and multi-sensory character instruction.
After-School Programs
Provide structured Chinese learning in extended day and enrichment programs.
Special Education (IEP)
Built-in scaffolds and progress tracking support IEP documentation and differentiated instruction.
Summer & Intervention
Accelerate learning with intensive practice during summer school or intervention periods.
Standards & Curriculum Alignment
Our curriculum is designed to align with recognized national and international standards.
ACTFL-Aligned Curriculum
American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages
Proficiency Levels: Novice Low → Intermediate High
Aligned with ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines
Supports the 5 Cs: Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, Communities
Prepares students for AP Chinese exam
YCT Preparation Curriculum
Youth Chinese Test (中小学生汉语考试)
Test Levels: YCT Level 1 through Level 4+
Internationally recognized certification
Vocabulary and grammar aligned with YCT syllabus
Ideal for heritage learners and immersion programs
Preparing Students for the Seal of Biliteracy
40+ states now offer the Seal of Biliteracy — a prestigious credential students earn by demonstrating proficiency in English plus another language. Turtle Learn's curriculum prepares students to reach the required ACTFL Intermediate proficiency level for state assessments.
Comprehension practice with graded texts
Character writing & composition skills
Audio lessons & pronunciation feedback
AI-Powered Chinese Learning
Comprehensive tools for differentiated instruction, assessment, and progress tracking.
AI Differentiation
Automatically adapts content difficulty based on student performance. Supports heritage speakers and beginners in the same classroom.
Character Writing
Multi-sensory stroke order instruction with real-time feedback. Supports both Simplified and Traditional characters.
Progress Analytics
Detailed learning reports for teachers, administrators, and parents. Supports IEP documentation and data-driven instruction.
Proven in American School Classrooms
We piloted Turtle Learn at a leading American international school in Southeast Asia, working with elementary Chinese language learners.
Pilot Program Highlights
US-accredited curriculum, diverse student population
K-5 Chinese language learners with mixed proficiency levels
Integrated into daily instruction with at-home practice assignments
Teachers reported improved student engagement and character recognition
"The AI-powered differentiation allowed us to support both heritage speakers and new learners in the same classroom — something that's traditionally very challenging."
American International School, Asia
Photos from the Pilot
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Turtle Learn eligible for Title I funding?
Yes. Turtle Learn is ESSA Tier 4 certified, making it eligible for Title I funding for schools serving students from low-income families.
What evidence tier does Turtle Learn have under ESSA?
Turtle Learn has achieved ESSA Tier 4 certification, which means it 'Demonstrates a Rationale' based on high-quality research findings. This is an official evidence tier that qualifies the product for federal education funding.
Can I use ESSER funds to purchase Turtle Learn?
Yes. As an ESSA-certified educational technology product, Turtle Learn is eligible for purchase using ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funds.
Is Turtle Learn suitable for heritage Chinese learners?
Absolutely. Turtle Learn offers differentiated instruction with AI-powered personalization, multi-sensory scaffolds, and progress tracking that adapts to each learner's proficiency level—ideal for heritage speakers, immersion students, and new learners alike.
Does Turtle Learn support Mandarin immersion programs?
Yes. Turtle Learn is used in immersion programs, dual-language schools, and world language classes. It supports both Simplified and Traditional Chinese characters and includes Pinyin scaffolding.
Let's Build Together
We welcome educators and curriculum specialists to partner with us on customization. Whether you need content aligned to specific state standards, custom vocabulary sets for your immersion program, or adaptations for special populations — we're eager to collaborate.
- ✦ Custom curriculum alignment for your district
- ✦ Specialized content for heritage or immersion programs
- ✦ Co-development opportunities for innovative educators
Ready to Bring Turtle Learn to Your School?
Schedule a personalized demo with our US education team. We'll show you how Turtle Learn fits your program and help with funding documentation.
Or call us: +1 (650) 640-2676 / WhatsApp: +852 6130 9483
