Voices from the Field: Impact of the Implementation of the Science of Reading Instruction and Policy on Emergent Bilingual/English Learner Literacy Programs and Teachers

By Dr. Kathy Escamilla and Dr. Kimberly Strong 

Voices from the Field, a groundbreaking new report from the National Committee for Effective Literacy (NCEL) dives deep into the real-world implementation and interpretation of Science of Reading (SoR) policies. Through interviews with nearly 80 educators who work directly with emergent bilinguals/English learners (EB/EL) in schools implementing state and district SoR policies, the report uncovers critical insights into the challenges and opportunities for supporting EB/ELs. 

This study points to the need for more comprehensive understanding of the SoR and for implementation supports that directly address the needs of EB/EL students and the contexts in which they are taught. Together, we can ensure every student’s linguistic and cultural strengths are honored in literacy instruction.

Voices from the Field was guided by these research questions: 

• How has the implementation of the new state initiatives related to the SoR impacted the ability of teachers to implement comprehensive reading programs for emergent bilinguals and English learners?
• How is SoR implemented in bilingual/dual language programs?
• How is it implemented in English-instructed programs?

Key findings:

• Teachers understand the importance of foundational skills including phonics and appreciate having more direction and materials to teach them effectively. However, the amount of time they are now required to dedicate to these skills has become problematic.
• Mandates to prioritize English foundational skills,  particularly phonics, have significantly reduced the time available for English Language Development (ELD) and/or English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction.
• Robust literacy programs have been narrowed to focus almost exclusively on foundational skills, compromising the implementation and sustainability of dual language programs.
• Access to the full curriculum for all students has been reduced.
• This shift has reduced access to a comprehensive and full curriculum for all students and negatively impacted teachers’ professional practices.
• Additionally, some literacy programs lack culturally inclusive and relevant content further limiting their effectiveness.

Read testimonials from educators across the state about how the implementation of SoR mandates is impacting multilingual learners.