English Learners are a rapidly growing segment of the U.S. student population. An emerging body of research suggests that these students are best served in bilingual programs that provide them with the opportunity to maintain their home language and develop English language proficiency. However, the dearth of bilingual educators has hobbled state and district efforts to expand and create high-quality bilingual programs (e.g., dual language immersion, two-way immersion) to serve English Learners.

New America details statewide strategies of policy and practice to support a high-quality Grow-Your-Own bilingual educator program. This strategy highlights partnerships between educator preparation programs, school districts, and community organizations. This resource is designed to provide state and local leaders with a foundational set of practices and policies to consider when designing and implementing GYO programs for bilingual educators.