The Critical Role of Multilingual Learning and the Alarming Threats from Current Policies

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Explore The importance of Multilingual Learning and How this administration can negatively impact the public education system as we know it for multilingual learners. Discover key solutions, advocacy steps, and real-life success stories. 



Understanding Multilingual Learning: A Foundation for Success

The Definition and Scope of Multilingual Education

Multilingual learning refers to educational practices that support the development of proficiency in more than one language. This approach isn't just about acquiring new languages—it's about honoring the cultural and linguistic identities of students while equipping them with skills essential for today's globalized world.

In the U.S., multilingual learners (MLs), often known as English Language Learners (ELLs), make up over 10% of the K–12 population. These students come from diverse backgrounds and bring rich linguistic assets into the classroom. Yet, they are often forced to conform to monolingual standards that disregard their heritage and suppress their language development.

Cognitive, Social, and Economic Benefits of Multilingualism

Research consistently supports the cognitive benefits of multilingualism, including improved memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Multilingual students also develop greater empathy, cross-cultural awareness, and global readiness.

Economically, speaking multiple languages can significantly enhance future job opportunities. Companies today value bilingual employees for their ability to connect with wider customer bases and foster inclusive work environments. 

I am blessed to know more than one language because it has afforded me the ability to more easily aquire my teaching positions. In each position that I have had in the public school setting, I have, in one way or another, utlized my Spanish language. Moving to Wisconsin from south Texas, my language skills have been a hot commodity. Because of this, I was able to ask for more pay so that I am actually being paid my worth. Additionally, my languages have given me the opportunity to truly make so many more connections that I ever thought possible.

The Importance of Multilingual Learning in the 21st Century

Globalization and the Demand for Multilingual Competencies

As economies and societies become increasingly interconnected, the ability to communicate across languages is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Global job markets favor individuals who are bilingual or multilingual, making these learners vital to future innovation and diplomacy. 

Cultural Identity, Self-Esteem, and Academic Achievement

Language is not just a communication tool; it’s a core part of personal identity. Multilingual education empowers students by validating their backgrounds and giving them tools to excel academically. Numerous studies show that students who are encouraged to maintain their native languages perform better in school and develop higher self-esteem.  I have seen this first hand, with countless students; when you help students make connections to their language and culture and encourage them to use their native language skills, they become much more independent and proud of who they are. While in the past people wanted to separate languages, it is now known that translanguaging is acutally a crucial step in learning a new language and that languages should be used simultaneously so that people are builidng upon the skills that they already have in their native language to more easily attain their second language. 

Equity in Education: Serving Multilingual Learners

Addressing Historical Inequities in Language Education

Historically, language education in the U.S. has often favored English-only instruction, sidelining students from non-English-speaking households. This has resulted in generations of students being denied the opportunity to fully engage with their education.

The Role of Culturally Responsive Teaching

Teachers who incorporate culturally responsive strategies—such as inclusive curricula, native language resources, and respect for cultural norms—create environments where multilingual learners feel seen and heard. These approaches not only improve outcomes but also foster respect among all students. 




How This Administration’s Policies Endanger Multilingual Education

Budget Cuts to Bilingual and ESL Programs

One of the most direct ways this administration is undermining multilingual learning is through budget reductions. Cuts to Title III funding, which supports English Language Acquisition programs, have severely limited schools' abilities to hire trained ESL teachers or purchase dual-language materials. Our country should instead foster ESL programs and encourage more support. After all, we are a first world country with so much diversity, which has made us such a beakon of hope. Yet, while nations around the world encourage learning more than one language, this administration is headed in the opposite direction.  It is my opinion that the more languages you know, the more you can learn and grow from other people. I truly believe that most people in this country know that one has to learn English in order to succeed here, but why diminish other languages? 

Legislation That Undermines Language Access and Inclusion

Recent policy proposals aiming to prioritize "English-first" curricula threaten to erase decades of progress. These moves disregard the foundational research supporting bilingualism and perpetuate the false idea that English proficiency must come at the expense of a student’s native language.

Consequences of Neglecting Multilingual Learners in Public Schools

Widening Achievement Gaps and Dropout Rates

When schools fail to support multilingual learners, the result is often a dramatic achievement gap. These students are more likely to fall behind in core subjects, receive lower standardized test scores, and eventually drop out of school altogether.

Loss of Cultural Heritage and Identity

Forcing assimilation through language can sever children from their cultural roots. This loss not only affects individual identity but diminishes the overall cultural richness of our society.

Advocacy and Policy Recommendations for Supporting Multilingual Learners

Investing in Teacher Training and Multilingual Curriculum

Professional development programs that equip educators to support diverse language needs are critical. This includes hiring more bilingual teachers and adopting dual-language models that treat multiple languages as assets, not barriers.

Legislative Safeguards and Funding Priorities

Policymakers must protect multilingual learning through dedicated funding, legal safeguards, and inclusive education standards. Equity-based reforms should ensure that multilingual learners receive equal access to quality education. I urge you to reach out to your representatives. Don't be shy or ashamed. After all, they work for us. 

Success Stories and Best Practices in Multilingual Education

Districts and States Leading the Way

States like California and New York have implemented progressive dual-language programs and set ambitious goals to increase bilingual graduates. These initiatives have yielded positive results in both academic performance and community engagement. In my home state of Wisconsin, I have seen our Dual Language students achieve greatness and graduate with the seal of biliteracy. Seeing students who come from native English homes speaking fluent Spanish and students who come from Spanish speaking homes speaking fluent English, working together to improve their lives and communication skills, has been eye opening and amazing.

What Can Be Scaled Nationally

Federal adoption of proven local models—such as the Seal of Biliteracy—can standardize multilingual success across the country. Best practices must become policy, not exceptions.

The Way Forward: Building an Inclusive and Multilingual Future

Community Engagement and Family Involvement

Parental involvement is key. Schools must actively engage families in their native languages and create platforms for multilingual voices. This partnership builds trust and reinforces learning at home. In my current district, I work directly with family of multilingual learners, and before my arrival I do not believe that these families' voices were heard. Now, they are attending evening classes, which I lead, to help their children with literacy skills at home. They are showing up to school events, they are helping with homework, and feel much more confident than when I started and it has nothing to do with me, rather the fact that when you show parents that their language matters, they will see not only the value of their language but of all languages.

A Call for Unity and Long-Term Vision

The future of education depends on recognizing language diversity as a strength, not a challenge. It’s time to move beyond reactive policies and build a visionary system that uplifts all learners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why is multilingual learning important in public education?
A1: It promotes cognitive development, strengthens cultural identity, and prepares students for a global workforce.

Q2: How can this administration harm multilingual learners?
A2: Through funding cuts, English-only policies, and lack of support for dual-language programs.

Q3: What can schools do to support multilingual students?
A3: Implement culturally responsive teaching, hire bilingual staff, and use inclusive curricula.

Q4: Are there proven benefits to dual-language programs?
A4: Yes, they improve academic performance and foster higher engagement among both English learners and native speakers.

Q5: How can parents support multilingual education at home?
A5: By encouraging the use of their native language and staying involved in school decisions.

Q6: What legislation can protect multilingual learners?
A6: Laws that mandate funding for ESL and bilingual programs, as well as policies supporting the Seal of Biliteracy and teacher training.


🎓 Teacher Kevin Mora – Inspiring Bilingual Education in San Antonio



Who he is:
Kevin Mora, a Spanish teacher originally from Colombia, came to San Antonio, Texas, in 2022 through the International TeachAlliance program ncela.ed.gov+15People.com+15Reddit+15.

What he accomplished:

  • Mora teaches Spanish and social studies at the Eloise Japhet Academy in SAISD.

  • He creatively integrates cultural context into lessons—bringing history to life by delivering it “as if I was Abraham Lincoln.” People.com

  • In 2023, he won the Linguistically Responsive Teacher Award for middle schools in his district, reflecting his outstanding impact. People.com

Why it matters:
Mora’s dual-language teaching empowers multilingual learners by affirming their cultural identity and enhancing language engagement. One student said: “I want to be like you because you speak English… I was just crying—that’s the real reason why I do this.” Escuela de Guadalupe+3People.com+3Reddit+3

Impact:

  • Students gain confidence and trust, especially when they see someone from a similar background succeed.

  • Mora’s methods have improved student engagement and fostered pride in multicultural and bilingual education.

Conclusion: Protecting Multilingual Learning is Protecting Our Future

Multilingual learning is not just about language—it’s about equity, identity, and opportunity. As current policies threaten to unravel critical progress, we must unite in advocating for inclusive, well-funded, and research-backed education for all. The importance of Multilingual Learning and How this administration can negatively impact the public education system as we know it for multilingual learners must remain central in every education debate moving forward.


📚 Works Cited

  1. Garcia, Ofelia & Wei, Li.
    Translanguaging: Language, Bilingualism and Education. Palgrave Macmillan, 2014.
    https://link.springer.com/book/10.1057/9781137385765

  2. U.S. Department of Education.
    English Learner Tool Kit for State and Local Education Agencies.
    https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oela/english-learner-toolkit/index.html

  3. National Education Association (NEA).
    Promoting Educational Equity for English Learners.
    https://www.nea.org/resource-library/promoting-educational-equity-english-learners

  4. Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL).
    Benefits of Being Bilingual.
    https://www.cal.org/what-we-do/projects/benefits-of-being-bilingual

  5. The Migration Policy Institute.
    English Learners in U.S. Public Schools: Trends, Policy, and Programs.
    https://www.migrationpolicy.org/programs/english-language-learners

  6. Education Week.
    English Learners and the Law: Equity, Civil Rights, and Policy.
    https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/english-learners


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