Many studies show that being multilingual and biliterate provides significant benefits for English Learners, which has led several states to expand their multilingual or dual language immersion (DLI) programs. However, these expansions come with challenges, such as shortages of bilingual educators, finding the right curricula and assessments, and ensuring all English Learners have equal access to these programs.
In this session, “Supporting Expansion and Equitable Access to Dual Language Immersion: Lessons from States,” Kate Wright will join state leaders Allison Balter, Karl H. Brown, and Elisa Alvarez from Massachusetts, New York, and Utah to share insights on improving access to DLI programs. Kate will present research on DLI implementation and its national relevance while the state leaders will also discuss their experiences with DLI expansion, highlighting challenges and successes. Be sure to attend this session at 2:45 p.m. in Ballroom F.