Succeeding with English Language Learners: Lessons Learned from the Great City Schools

Author: Horwitz, A. R., Uro, G., Price-Baugh, R., Simon, C., Uzzell, R., Lewis, S., Casserly, M.
Publisher: Council of the Great City Schools, The
Publication Date: 2009, October
Publication City: Washington
Publication State: DC

Resources

Right-click (Windows) or Control-Click (Mac) link for download options.

• Succeeding with English Language Learners: Lessons Learned from the Great City Schools(.pdf 1.5MB)
  

Abstract (written by WestEd)

This report discusses a study of four urban districts demonstrating gains in English learners' achievement—Dallas, New York City, San Francisco, and St. Paul. Overall, these four districts showed similar traits in several areas, which were not apparent in two comparison districts. Based on these patterns, the report offers several recommendations:

1. Create a suitable context for implementing and sustaining reform.
   • Utilize state or court directives as an impetus to develop a vision and high expectations.
   
   
   • Empower English learner program administrators.
   
   
   • Make all teaching and administrative staff accountable for English learners’ achievement.
   
   
   • Incorporate community support.
   
   
2. Implement strategic and instructional recommendations.


• Focus on academic literacy and English language development.


• Provide high-quality professional development to all teachers of English learners.


• Assess district standards for hiring, placing, and retaining staff who work directly with English learners.


• Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the level of access that English learners have to district course offerings.


• Ensure that resources for English learners are properly and effectively expended.


• Develop a system for tracking multiple measures of English learners’ educational progress.