Research indicates that it is beneficial for English learners (ELs) if all general classroom teachers have some form of EL-specific training, regardless of whether they work directly with English learners or not. General classroom teachers help students gain proficiency in the essential areas of language proficiency: speaking, listening, reading…

This three-article dissertation examined how policy choices in three key policy areas -- initial enrollment, service provision, and reclassification -- impact English learner (EL)-classified students. The first article examined the national landscape of state statutes, regulations, and state education agencies' (SEA) guidance that support…

The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001 provided a clear mandate to school administrators to provide additional training for professional and paraprofessional staff. With its requirement that school districts must ensure that all staff are "highly qualified" for the roles assigned to them, it leaves no room for excuses or…