Defending Against Challenges to Equity for Multilingual Learners: The Role of State Education Agency Leaders

• In Event: Defending Against Inequity for Multilingual Learners: How Does Policy Implementation Impact Access to Courses/Programs?

Abstract

Demographic and policy shifts have elevated the education of multilingual learners (MLs) in state education agency leaders’ work, positioning these leaders as influential intermediaries in ML policy. Concurrently, many states have passed or are considering policies to restrict anti-racism and equity efforts in education. Drawing on the principles of critical policy analysis, we examine 16 state education agency leaders’ efforts to advance equity for MLs amidst these challenges to equity. Findings reveal how state education leaders across diverse political contexts leveraged collaborative networks to promote ML equity, and operated both within and beyond state policy. Implications highlight the need for increased support and partnership opportunities for state education leaders as they navigate mounting challenges to equity.

Authors

• Hayley Ryan Weddle, University of Pittsburgh
  Presenting Author

• Megan Hopkins, WestEd
  Presenting Author