Helpful Links for English Language Learner and Multilingual Learner Parents, Guardians, and Families

Guide Helps Newcomer Students' Families Navigate the U.S. School System

Starting a new school can be difficult—especially for newcomer immigrant and refugee students, whose families may not be familiar with the U.S. education system. Starting School in the United States: A Guide for Newcomer Students' Families, a new resource from REL Northwest, provides answers to many questions newcomer families typically have about the U.S. school system. Specifically, the guide (which is available in four languages) offers research-based guidance on the registration process, how families can get involved in their children's education, the rights every student has under U.S. law, and more. We encourage schools, districts, and refugee agencies to provide a link to the guide on their website and print copies for newcomer families.

What Parents of ELLs and MLs Should Know to Ensure Their Child Graduates From High School

Presented at  41st ANNUAL NYS ASSOCIATION OF BILINGUAL EDUCATORS CONFERENCE - March 15-17, 2018

This presentation will help parents learn about the educational system in New York State (NYS), particularly in high schools. Parents will learn about High School organizations, expectations for High School students, and High School graduation requirements.

Colorín Colorado

A bilingual website for families and educators of English Language Learners which is a project in partnership with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). It includes information about teaching English Language Learners.

Community Organizations and Advocacy Groups

PBS Parents

PBS Parents is a trusted resource that’s filled with information on child development and early learning. It also serves as a parent's window to the world of PBS KIDS, offering access to educational games and activities inspired by PBS KIDS programs.

Reading Rockets: English Language Learners

A website geared mostly toward educators, but useful for families as well! Discusses the most effective ways to teach ELL students, how to create a welcoming classroom, and ways to promote family involvement.

Teachers First: Ideas and Resources for Parents of ESL/ELL Students

These reviewed resources offer information for ELL parents and guardians. Some are resources parents can use at home with children to reinforce language skills. Others include suggested activities ELLs can begin in school and share with parents. Be sure to read the "In the Classroom" suggestions for ways these reviewed resources can build language skills both at home and at school.

US Department of Education

The website of the federal agency that oversees US education. It is responsible for:

• Establishing policies on federal financial aid for education, and distributing as well as monitoring those funds.
• Collecting data on America's schools and disseminating research.
• Focusing national attention on key educational issues.
• Prohibiting discrimination and ensuring equal access to education.

USDOE Federal Student Aid Portal

Are you a parent who’s looking ahead to your child’s college years? Or just about to face the first tuition bill? Here are some resources to help parents save for college, learn about financial aid, and understand the application process.

USDOE Helping My Child Succeed: Toolkit for Hispanic Families (English and Spanish)

This brochure provides information about how you can help build your child's reading and language skills during the early years of life. Reading well is at the heart of all learning. Without the ability to read, children can't succeed in school.

Toolkit in Spanish   Toolkit in English