Will Your State’s ESSA Plan Work for English-Language Learners?

The Migration Policy Institute’s National Center on Immigrant Integration Policy has put together a framework to evaluate states’ Every Student Succeeds Act plans to determine if they meet the law’s requirements for English-language-learner students.

Outlining 33 key questions, the brief guides readers through sections in state plans that should address English-learner accountability and offers guidance on how to evaluate the effectiveness of policies that states plan to adopt.

As the report authors write, ESSA requires states to provide a much clearer picture to the public on how English-learners are doing in schools, including keeping a closer eye on their English-proficiency progress and academic achievement. But there is already friction in some states over that mandate.

HELPING NEW ARRIVALS HELP THEIR CHILDREN

Kentwood Public Schools, MI —  New Meadowlawn Elementary School Principal Tim Hargis recognizes the traits of dedication and perseverance in his English-language learner families, and sees how hard parents work to help their children be successful.

The school is home to the district’s elementary Newcomer Center Program for students who are brand new to the United States. There are currently 20 children in the program. Many other students schoolwide are ELL, with varying levels of English.