Structured English Immersion and Arizona Proposition 203: Education, Implementation, and Integration

• In Event: 109 - Student Forum Roundtable Session.
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 02.

Abstract

The implementation of the Structured English Immersion (SEI) model in several states has been in the center of debate within bilingual education. Specifically, Proposition 203 from the state of Arizona, passed on November 7, 2000, replaced all previous bilingual education models in favor of SEI that places English Language Learners (ELLs) in English-only classrooms. This review of literature and historical newspaper analysis examines Proposition 203 within the context of scholarly work and public opinion. Moreover, I explore what scholars have researched on SEI and Proposition 203 and their current opinions on the model, while then looking at newspapers and analyzing arguments made by advocates for SEI from across the country. I orientate my literature review and historical overview through two theoretical frameworks, Critical Race Theory and Critical Rhetoric Theory. Through these critical lenses, I hope to develop an analysis that points toward combining both academic scholarship and journalism to paint a better picture on SEI the future of bilingual education.

Author

• Daniel Corral, Beloit College