The New Normal: A Cohort Analysis of How COVID-19 Disruptions Altered English Language Proficiency in California

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 9:45am
  In Poster Session: Division L Section 6 Social Policy, Inequality, and Student Outcomes: Poster Session

Abstract

This study examines changes in English Learner students' English language proficiency in California following the COVID-19 pandemic. Using cohort-based descriptive analysis of publicly available ELPAC data, the study tracks six cohorts of Kindergarten students (2018-19 through 2023-24). The percentage classified as Novice English Learners on the Initial ELPAC increased dramatically from 57.41% for the 2018-19 cohort to 72.38% for the 2023-24 cohort. Pre-pandemic cohorts showed stable rates around 57%, while post-2020 cohorts exceeded 60% and continued rising. For the Summative ELPAC, post-2020 cohorts presented 20-30% of students at the lowest proficiency level compared to the pre-pandemic rate of approximately 12%. These findings suggest a fundamental shift in California's EL population, with significant implications for district planning and service delivery. 

Author

• Marlene Saint Martin, University of California - Los Angeles