English Learners
English learners (ELs) make up nearly 10 percent of the K–12 student population in the United States, and the number continues to grow. In the classroom, ELs often have unique needs and strengths, with differences in language, culture, and other factors. EL-related initiatives at IES include efforts to describe the EL population, understand their learning needs, and develop tools that will support their success.
Data and Statistics
Research and Evaluation
- Grants Focused on English Language Learners
- Study of Educational Policies, Supports, and Practices for English Learners
- Regional Educational Laboratory (REL) Program English Learner partnerships, research, and resources
- National Research and Development Center to Improve Education for Secondary English Learners
- Transdisciplinary Approaches to Improving Opportunities and Outcomes for English Learners
- Evaluations of programs and interventions supporting English language learners
Tools for Educators
- Getting it Right: Reference Guides for Registering Students with Non-English Names
- Strategies to Identify and Support English Learners with Learning Disabilities
- Intervention Reports: What Works to Support English Learners' Achievement
- Practice Guides: Teaching English Learners
- Infographic: How We Count English Learners Makes a Difference
Spotlight
The percentage of public school students in the United States who were English language learners (ELLs) was higher in fall 2017 (10.1 percent, or 5.0 million students) than in fall 2000 (8.1 percent, or 3.8 million students). In fall 2017, the percentage of public school students who were ELLs ranged from 0.8 percent in West Virginia to 19.2 percent in California. Learn more about the characteristics of English language learners in the Condition of Education, released by NCES in May.