Researcher(s)
- Xen Bossard, , University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Mahasveta Barua, English, University of Delaware
Abstract
Multilingual Learners (MLLs) are a subgroup of students whose first language is not English. In Delaware, they are rapidly growing, yet regularly underperform academically. In number, they have nearly doubled in the past decade while graduating at rates 20% lower than their non-MLL counterparts. They have long been overlooked, with reporting of their graduation and academic proficiency rates only becoming mandatory in June 2019 under the Every Student Succeeds Act. This led to the creation of the MLL Strategic Plan by the Delaware Department of Education.
Delaware’s MLL Strategic Plan (2023-2028) intends to improve outcomes for MLL students through policy advocacy, educational initiatives, and by spreading awareness of MLL issues. Based on research and an analysis of the plan, it becomes evident that the plan is strong academically but weak in sustainability and plausibility.
Amongst the most ambitious initiatives of the plan is the intent to embed Integrated and Targeted English Language Development (TELD) into professional development for teachers. TELD is intended to integrate language acquisition into all activities, utilize culturally and linguistically responsive educational practices, while keeping in line with the 2017 WIDA ELD Standards. The primary criticisms of TELD in MLL discussion have primarily revolved around the risks of isolating MLL instruction from other academic content, ranging from poor to nonexistent integration, and the immense resources it requires. Delaware’s plan remedies these issues by including integration in teacher professional development and allocating an additional $60 million in opportunity funding. However, the sustainability of such a program remains a concern, especially given ongoing teacher shortages, inequities in funding, and growing concerns about safety in schools. These issues stand as potential barriers to success for Delaware’s MLL Strategic Plan. The plan itself is strong and rooted in exceptional educational policy, but its plausibility remains to be seen.