The English Language Learner KnowledgeBase for Parents

Instructional Models for Teaching ELLs

To determine which ELL services and programs are best suited for a student identified as an English learner (EL), local education agencies (LEAs) must consider the student’s (1) English proficiency level, (2) Grade level, (3) Educational background, and (4) Language background for bilingual programs. 

ELL Family Toolkit

The English Learner Family Toolkit was created to help families choose education services that meet their child’s needs. U.S. educators, elementary and secondary school teachers, principals, and other school staff can also share the toolkit as a resource for English learners and their families.  The English Learner Family Toolkit consists of 6 chapters, and each chapter contains 5 sections - an overview, enrollment, family and student rights, questions to ask schools, tips, and resources. Download the complete toolkit by using the quick links for the information needed most.

ESSA Parent Outreach Tool Kit

This State of Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction website provides some parent outreach materials to parents on the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) including: ESSA plans (translated into several languages), an ESSA parents guide, ESSA newsletters and handouts, and ESSA videos flyers. If you are looking for something better tailored to your district or school, please Click here and Choose your State via the United States map below.

NABE - Bilingual Education

The National Association of Bilingual Education (NABE) webpage explains bilingual education.

Parental Involvement from the Practioner Perspective

This is a webcast series on Parental involvement regulations.

A Parents' Guide to ESSA

This guide aims to help parents like you understand the flexibility provided to States and school districts in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which amended the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, a landmark Federal education law. We know that parents are the most important advocates for their children. Because States and school districts have significant flexibility in how they meet the requirements of the law, you have an opportunity to influence how they use that flexibility to best help your child. We hope that this document empowers you with information that will help you advocate for better education for your child and every child in your State and district and help you make the right choices for your family. Betsy DeVos -Secretary of Education