It's Getting Hot in Here: Expanding Social Justice in Arizona English Language Learner Funding Research

• In Event: Roundtable Session 49
  In Roundtable Session: Latino Social Justice Spaces

Abstract

English language learner (ELL) education in Arizona has become increasingly difficult. Frontline teaching staff and stakeholders have contended with contentious policy that segregates students, misaligns curricular needs, mis-categorizes and grossly neglects funding allocation for ELLs. This paper attempts to outline the ramifications of ignoring a socially just solution for ELL funding, and the possibility of a social justice paradigm for ELL education in Arizona. The preliminary results suggest Arizona must re-examine their language and funding policies in order to drive a socially just solution for ELL education. Furthermore new methodological treatments for funding students must be sought in order to align resources with ELL student need.

Author

• David Martinez, Arizona State University - Tempe