Many Languages, One California: Strengthening State Policies & Systems for English Learner Success

This report aims to build knowledge and inform action in the philanthropy sector to strengthen California’s policies and systems in service of Dual language learners/English learners.

California’s education systems serve large populations of Dual language learners (DLLs)/English learners (ELs), and efforts to improve educational outcomes in the state must take into account the unique assets and needs of these students and their families. In recent years, the state has shifted policies and systems to better support these students from birth through 12th grade. But more remains to be done.

We believe foundations can play a key role in this work. We conducted a field scan of state policies relevant to the experiences of DLLs/ELs in the early childhood and K12 education systems to deepen philanthropy’s understanding and inform their action. This report is a resource to help foundations identify opportunities for continued learning and explore potential steps to increase access to a high-quality education for DLLs/ELs in the state.