English Language Learners in Schools: Understanding Your Rights and Support

January 10, 2023

English language learners (ELLs) are a diverse group of students who are still developing their proficiency in the English language. These students often face unique challenges in school, including difficulty understanding and participating in class, and lower academic achievement compared to their native English-speaking peers. It's important for parents, educators and ELLs themselves to understand the rights and support available for ELLs, to ensure that these students receive a high-quality education.

Legal Rights of ELLs in Schools

ELLs are protected by a number of federal laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title III of the No Child Left Behind Act. These laws prohibit discrimination against ELLs and require schools to provide them with appropriate language services and support. This includes providing ELLs with access to the same curriculum as their non-ELL peers, as well as providing language instruction, translation and interpretation services.

Provision of Language Services and Support

In order to support ELLs, schools are required to provide a range of language services and support. This includes language instruction, translation and interpretation services, and bilingual or dual-language programs. Additionally, schools should provide ELLs with access to the same extra-curricular activities and support services as their non-ELL peers. Moreover, schools should also assess ELLs' proficiency level in English regularly to ensure that they are receiving appropriate services and support.

Ensuring Compliance

It's important to ensure that schools are complying with the legal rights of ELLs. Parents should request information about the language services and support available at their child's school and ask to see the school's ELL plan. If there are concerns about the school's compliance with ELL laws, parents can reach out to the state Department of Education or an attorney experienced in education law for assistance.

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ELLs are a diverse group of students who often face unique challenges in school. It's important for parents, educators and ELLs themselves to understand the rights and support available for ELLs, to ensure that these students receive a high-quality education. By understanding the legal rights of ELLs, the provision of language services and support and ensuring compliance, parents can take steps to ensure that their child's education is protected.

5 Key Takeaways:

1. ELLs are protected by federal laws that prohibit discrimination and require schools to provide language services and support.

2. Schools are required to provide a range of language services and support, including language instruction, translation and interpretation services, and bilingual or dual-language programs.

3. Regularly assessing ELLs' proficiency level in English is important for providing appropriate services and support.

4. Parents should request information about the language services and support available at their child's school and ask to see the school's ELL plan.

5. If there are concerns about the school's compliance with ELL laws, parents can reach out to the state Department of Education or an attorney experienced in education law for assistance.

Protect Your Child's Education: Contact EducationLawyers.com for Legal Assistance with English Language Learners' Rights

If you have any concerns about the rights of English language learners in your child's school or if you feel that your child is not receiving the appropriate language services and support, don't hesitate to contact EducationLawyers.com. Our attorneys are experienced in education law and can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of ensuring that your child receives the education they deserve. Don't wait, take action today and contact us to schedule a consultation.