The Role of Bilingual Education at the Elementary School Level

Bilingual education has always been a controversial topic in the history of the United States. While some people advocate for its effectiveness, others consider it insignificant in the grand scheme of things. This capstone examines the role of bilingual education in English language learners’ learning at the elementary school level. Through the use of literature reviews, online research, interviews of teachers and principals, and anonymous student surveys of Santa Cruz County, result findings reveal positive effects on bilingual education in English language learners’ learning. There are many positive outcomes for bilingual education, as well as a few challenges. It is helpful for students to make a connection to their native language and use the knowledge they already have to transfer it to a new language. However, support and funding continue to be an ongoing issue for bilingual education and it cannot be carried through accurately without these components. With more public knowledge of the positive effects of bilingual education, it can encourage increasing support for this needed service