Chapter+4

Long-term English learners (LTELs) are English learners that have been in U.S. schools for more than six years without reaching sufficient English proficiency to be involved in mainstream classes. I found it interesting that the majority of ELL students born in the U.S. meet the definition of LTELs. As I ponder reasons for this I realize there are probably as many as there are LTEL students. One of the significant things that I have seen while teaching these students is the amount of time they miss school. Many ELL students I have worked with have missed 4 to 8 weeks a year as they return to Mexico to visit family. They generally leave without any prior notice and come back just as anonymously. It is hard to teach a student that is not in school and is already behind. I’m not sure how to remedy this issue but I’ve wondered if communication between school and home would help. I’ve wondered if activities might be provided for the students to engage in while away would help. All in all I think there is a need for further research in this area.