Misidentifying ELLs and How to Best Place them

Abstract

This project aims to address two main questions: 1) what is the most effective educational setting for English Language Learners (ELLs)? and 2) How can schools ensure appropriate placement for these students? ELLs face daily challenges in their personal lives, which should not persist when they enter the school environment. Misplacement of students often occurs due to insufficient funding resulting in limited resources, inadequate teacher training, and a lack of cultural understanding from parents. If schools could better support their ELLs, they would be better placed and have a higher chance of academic success. This project explores different proficiency levels under which ELLs are categorized, the various academic settings used in U.S. schools, and strategies for teachers to effectively place ELLs. Factors such as the students' literacy skills in their native language and parental input will be considered in the placement process. In this project, a professional development program is proposed to enhance teachers' understanding of ELLs' accurate placement, encourage collaboration among educators, and create a welcoming and engaging school environment for ELLs and their families.