Author: Natalya Seals

English language learners (ELLs) bring a wealth of experiences from their families, homes, neighborhoods, and communities to school. Children with diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds have stories and experiences that are unique and will enrich the culture of your school. School principals need to use these experiences to help general education staff and students begin…

Not all dual-language learners are at risk academically, but as a group, these students are often labeled as such, despite differences in their English skills. Not all dual-language learners are at risk academically, but as a group, these students are often labeled as such, despite differences in their English skills. A new Iowa State University…

Does your school district have a growing percentage of Dual Language Learners or English Language Learners? You’re not alone. According to an NEA Policy Brief, by 2025 nearly 25% of all students in public schools will be English Language Learners, the fastest-growing student population group. Even today, 32% of children under 8 years old are dual language learners. From 2000 to 2017,…

State stresses bilingualism as sure route to work and careers around the globe. When it comes to foreign language study, Utah is emerging as a national trendsetter. The state’s five-year-old dual-language immersion program will likely give Utah students a leg up in the future job market and foreign affairs, and could serve as a model for other states,…

Thank you NAEYC! The Little Sponges® team had a fantastic time at the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s (NAEYC) Annual Conference in Atlanta, Georgia this past week. We would like to extend a big thank you to all of the teachers and administrators who stopped by our booth to learn more about…

During a speech last month at a meeting of the Council of Great City Schools in Cleveland, Ohio, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates outlined a change of direction in his foundation’s approach to education funding in the U.S., while highlighting the application of data analytics to discover priorities for English language learners. He expects to invest…