Dual Language Learner Data Gaps

DLL Data Gaps is a five-part blog series that explores how state leaders can build data systems that more fully account for young DLLs and their distinct needs. This project bridges New America’s earlier work on data dilemmas for K-12 English learners with issues in the early care and education (ECE) sector. 

The series will be compiled and released as a separate policy brief later this year.

Blog Series

A Note on Terminology

This series uses the term “dual language learners” (DLLs) to refer to young children ages 0-5 in their homes, communities, or ECE programs. DLLs have a native language other than English and are in the process of developing English language proficiency. In the K-12 years, federal law refers to these students as “English learners” (ELs).