The Roadmap policy reflects a state that has adopted a Seal of Biliteracy; it reflects a state where Proposition 58 [which supports dual-language education in schools] was passed by 74 percent of the voters, indicating they want more opportunities for students to develop proficiency in multiple languages; it was passed in an era of the Common Core, which understands how essential language is to learning all subjects. It is far more asset-based and it reaches beyond just the goal of English proficiency to a goal of having the language to succeed academically, to be ready for college and career and to thrive and participate in a global society.
Boards should also be asking if their local policies are aligned with the Roadmap. In many cases, they are going to need to take a new look at the district’s English learner master plan and to take a new look at their position statements on issues like language diversity and how they support proficiency in multiple languages.