The English Language Learner KnowledgeBase for Parents

This KnowledgeBase archive includes content and external links that were accurate and relevant as of September 30, 2019.

The English Language Learner (ELL) KnowledgeBase for Administrators and Teachers is an online resource supporting both the administration, teaching and execution of programs for English learning students. It offers resources related to Office for Civil Rights (OCR) requirements and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

Element 1: Understand the U.S. School System

Purpose: Districts are required to take affirmative steps to address the language development of English language learner (ELL) students where the inability to speak and understand the English language prevents the students from effective participation in the district's educational program. This first element provides parents information about the U.S. school system.

Activity 1: Know Your Rights Under the Law

Task 1: Learn About Parents' Rights

Activity 2: Understand School Policies, Procedures, and Programs

Task 1: Investigate School Programs

The contents of this website were developed under a grant from the U.S. Department of Education and are intended for general reference purposes only. However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the U.S. Department of Education or the Center, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. Some resources on this site require Adobe Acrobat Reader. This website archive includes content and external links that were accurate and relevant as of September 30, 2019.

Element 2: Help Students Learn

Purpose: Research shows parent involvement influences academic achievement. For English language learner (ELL) students, language and cultural barriers may impede their parents' participation in their education. Learning how to support their children with their schoolwork is an important undertaking for parents of ELL students. The resources provided are aimed at helping parents engage themselves in their children's schoolwork.

Activity 1: Become Involved at School

Activity 2: Help Students in Specific Subjects

Element 3: Investigate Higher Education

Purpose: Students whose parents did not attend college are more likely to be less prepared academically for college, be unaware of how to apply for college and financial assistance, and to have more difficulty adjusting to college once they enroll. This element provides information about educational opportunities after high school, how to apply, and how to pay for the education.