Working with English Language Learners

Are there large populations of English language learners in Maryland?

Yes. For example, in the United States Montgomery County is ranked 20th out of the top school districts containing English language learners. This fact sheet from the Migration Policy Institute can show you a breakdown of population patterns.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics there were 4,397,318 public school students participating in programs for English language learners in the United States during the 2012-2013 school year. This number does not include the large number of students waiting to receive classification or students who had exited out of ELL programs.

Are there large populations of English language learners in the state where I plan to teach?

There are interactive maps from the Modern Language Association that can help you find out.

What should I know about refugee resettlement? How will this impact me as a teacher?

This article from the Migration Policy Institute might be helpful.

How will I be working with English Language learners in the elementary education program?

In classes such as ELED 357 undergraduates are placed in schools with high populations of English language learners. Undergraduates work both with individual students and small groups of students learning English as an additional language. Elementary students are at all levels of language acquisition.

What should I know about the faculty teaching English language learner coursework?

Faculty members who teach course work centering on linguistically diverse learners have also published within the fields of second language acquisition and linguistics. Faculty members are there to help guide you as you begin to work with English language learners.

What can I do if I want to specialize in working with English language learners?

A special cohort has been developed for undergraduates who wish to focus on working with English language learners. The cohort is called the ELL cohort. You can select to join this cohort in level one of the program. The directions for how to join this cohort are included in the level one application packet.

What are the degree requirements?

You can view the degree requirements in the Undergraduate Catalog.

Who should I talk to if I want to speak to someone about the English language learner teacher education programs in the elementary education department?

You can reach Dr. Judith Cruzado-Guerrero at or 410-704-4217.