English language learners are making scant progress in overcoming the achievement gap, not only because of inadequate funding, but also because federal and state educational policy actually create stumbling blocks by prohibiting or discouraging the use of the educational practices that research has clearly shown to be most effective for their needs. This was the basic message that Ofelia Garcia, Professor of Bilingual Education at Teachers College, Columbia University delivered to a standing room only audience on January 30, 2008 at an event hosted by the Campaign for Educational Equity. (Read highlights of event)

Discussants: 
James Crawford, President of the Institute for Language and Education Policy
Donna Nevel, community psychologist, co-founder and collective member, Center for Immigrant Families

Moderator:
Michael Rebell, Executive Director, The Campaign for Educational Equity, Teachers College, Columbia University

Resources:

• Audio Podcast (requires iTunes - free download)

• Garcia, Ofelia, Jo Anne Kleifgen & Lori Falchi, From English Language Learners to Emergent Bilinguals, Equity Matters: Research Review No. 1, The Campaign for Educational Equity, January 30, 2008.

• Ofelia Garcia Powerpoint Presentation

Published Friday, May. 16, 2008