How do we navigate all the buzzwords, acronyms, and definitions of Dual Language learners and programs? What are the benefits to these programs for English Language Learners, Dual Language Learners, and native English speakers? What are the challenges schools and communities are facing in implementing them and how can we begin solving them?

We tackle these questions and more as we kick off our series on Dual Language Programs with Dr. Conor P. Williams. Conor is a senior researcher at New America's Education Policy Program where he founded the organization's Dual Language Learners National Work Group in 2014. His work addresses policies and practices related to educational equity, dual language learners, immigration, and school choice. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, The Atlantic, U.S. News and World Report, among many others. Before joining New America, Conor taught first grade in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.

I was impressed with Conor's ability to break down the various elements of this complicated topic into digestible information that listeners will be able to use immediately in a variety of contexts. If you are looking to learn more, Conor recommends the following resources...

• The Allure of Order, by Jal Mehta (Harvard Graduate School of Education) - "The best book I've read on public education and especially education policy in the United States."
• Promoting the Educational Success of Children and Youth Learning English: Promising Futures, by Ruby Takanishi - "On language learning issues, this is the document to go to."
• Learn more about New America's Dual Language Learners National Work Group on their website.
• Conor Williams is on Twitter at @ConorPWilliams
• During the interview, we alluded to this article written by Conor for The Atlantic.

You can find a full transcription of this episode here.

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