California Educational Language Policy and At-Risk Learners and Bilingualism

College of Education: Department of Special Education
Assignment #8 English Language Policy Paper

20 POINTS



Read the following two articles provided for you:



Article #1: Global California 2030



Article #2: Fred Genesee on "At-risk learners and bilingualism: Is it a good idea?"



Make sure that you carefully read the articles and address the following article-specific questions, there are two sections.

Make sure you reference one or two points per question for your answers. As always, use complete sentences.



Article #1: Global California, 2030

Question #1: Based on Article #1, what do you see as at least two (2) issues or problems as related to past and/or current California educational language policy that impact students and their families?



Issue #1_A: One issue related to California's educational language policy is the historical marginalization and stigmatization of bilingualism and bilingual education. For several decades, according to the "Global Carlifonia 2030", the state of California implemented a policy that promoted the exclusive use of the English language in schools, thereby discouraging or even forbidding the utilization of students' native languages (6). Consequently, there was a decline in linguistic and cultural variety, a weakening of learners' sense of self and confidence, and a refusal to acknowledge the cognitive and educational advantages associated with being bilingual. Additionally, implementing this strategy has resulted in a scarcity of educators proficient in several languages and a decrease in the availability of programs aimed at fostering bilingualism. Ultimately, this has restricted the prospects for those learning English and native English speakers to cultivate their multilingual abilities and enhance their intercultural competency.



Issue #1_B: One additional concern pertaining to California's educational language policy is the absence of congruity and consistency between the state's conceptualization of multilingualism and the present condition of language instruction. Despite the recent adoption of various initiatives and frameworks in California aimed at promoting and facilitating bilingualism and biliteracy, such as the English Learner Roadmap and the Global California 2030, there remain notable deficiencies and obstacles in the execution and assessment of these policies and practices. For instance, one immediate requirement, for example, may include supplemental financial assistance, relevant materials and resources, professional development, and accountability mechanisms in language programs and instructional practices. It is also important to stress the need for enhanced cooperation and cooperation between educators, parents, the community, and the private sector. Such an effort together leads to the creation of a society that has respect for multi-linguistic practice.



Part #2: Based on Article #1, what do you see as at least two (2) issues or problems as related to past and/or current California educational language policy that impact teachers?



Issue #1_C: One teacher-related issue associated with California's school language policy is the scarce nature coupled with the uneven distribution of bilingual and foreign language teachers within the state. The "Global California 2030" report states that there are only 30 state-approved bilingual teacher training programs and 407 dual-immersion schools in California, a number of which is obviously insufficient to satisfy the needs of th