Navigate EL literacy needs with confidence

Best Practices for Emergent Multilingual Learners

Schools across the United States are increasingly serving emergent multilingual learners (EMLs)—English learners who are developing critical literacy skills in reading and writing in English—while also striving to meet rigorous grade-level expectations across all core content areas. The good news is that we have a growing body of strong research, as well as real-world examples from schools, demonstrating that it is possible to achieve both goals with measurable success.

Drawing on national data, including 2024 NAEP reading scores, the authors highlight a persistent challenge: far too many students, particularly in upper elementary, middle, and secondary grades, struggle with reading proficiency. Addressing this challenge requires more than isolated programs or reliance on Designated English Language Development (DELD) alone. Because students spend most of their day in core classrooms, effective English language development must also occur through Integrated English Language Development (IELD) practices across content areas.

Break down English learning barriers

This resource explores how schools can close the “knowing–doing gap” by ensuring that all teachers—not only ESL specialists—are equipped with practical ESL instructional strategies. Readers will examine how vocabulary instruction, discourse, reading, and writing can be embedded into daily instruction using evidence-based reading instruction, particularly for students navigating adolescent literacy demands.

A central focus of the paper is the role of collective leadership. The authors describe how a teacher-led Multilingual Task Force can support sustainable implementation of IELD and DELD, ensuring consistency and coherence across classrooms. The guide also emphasizes the importance of high-quality professional development for ML teachers and ongoing coaching for all educators.

This white paper reflects decades of research and practice. It offers schools a practical framework for supporting multilingual learners through intentional structures, collaborative leadership, and instructional coherence—work aligned with the mission of Solution Tree.