Prepared Teachers for English Language Learners

Abstract

English Language Learners (ELL) are a growing population in the United States and more teachers are finding themselves unprepared to teach them. Research has identified three outcomes that could occur due to teachers' lack of knowledge on ELLs, over- or underrepresentation in special education, poor academic outcomes, and lack of cultural understanding. The literature shows these outcomes can be improved with proper education for teachers to better their understanding of ELLs academic and social abilities. To address these problems, a professional development (PD) to provide information and resources to teachers is proposed for Falconer School District, where teachers are invited to participate for an hour session. The goal of this PD is to provide teachers with information, resources, and strategies to become more effective educators for ELLs. Recommendations for further research and improvements include specialized training for special education teachers for ELLs that have disabilities and finding support available for schools that have migrant ELLs that travel from school to school.