What does Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71A focus on for ELL education?

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71A specifically addresses the educational framework for English Language Learners (ELLs) through the implementation of English as a Second Language (ESL) and Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) programs. This legislation outlines the requirement for schools to provide targeted instruction designed to help non-English proficient students acquire English skills within an educational environment that supports their linguistic and academic needs. The law emphasizes a structured approach to ensuring that ELL students are able to access the curriculum and succeed in their educational pursuits, implementing models such as SEI that encapsulate best practices for language acquisition.

While other forms of bilingual education and various instructional programs may exist within the educational system, the focus of Chapter 71A remains confined to the methods and standards set specifically for ESL and SEI, ensuring a cohesive strategy for helping ELL students thrive in school settings.