Translating "No Child Left Behind" for English Language Learners and TESOL Professionals

This paper examines the impact of the No Child Left Behind Act on the education of English Language Learners (ELLs) and the professionals who work with them. An overview of NCLB is provided with emphasis given to the areas of accountability issues, flexibility, and teacher quality. Furthermore, implications for professionals in the field will be explored. Special attention will be given to the role of Teacher Education Programs in interpreting and implementing this new mandate. The commitment of Teacher Education Programs to prepare highly qualified teachers includes meeting the needs of ELLs so they attain high academic standards while increasing their English language proficiency. This is a very timely issue given the projected increase in the number of ELLs in Florida and the challenges these students face because of linguistic and cultural differences.