English Toolbox Tips

The U.S. Supreme Court recently heard a case -- argued by Kenneth Starr, of Clinton impeachment fame -- in which Arizona is trying to stop paying for endless TESOL training for non-English-speaking students in their public schools. Article here; relevant quote here:

Their brief says the lower courts overstepped their power in telling Arizona it must specifically set aside funding for all its ELL program operational needs. "The lower courts’ approach will create perverse incentives to keep students languishing in special-language programs" since it’s based on the number of students in the programs, rather than those who become English-proficient.

And, if they lose and must earmark ELL funds? Bistrow says opponents suggest Arizona would need to spend $300 million more on ELLs: "This fight is more than an academic exercise. It’s about real money."

Tim Hogan, executive director of the Arizona Center for Law in the Public Interest and a co-counsel for Flores, estimates the amount at closer to $200 million.

Labels: EFL, teaching English, TEFL