Seeing the Bigger Picture: A Comparative Approach to English Language Learner Policy and Practice in Mississippi

Author

Anne Haughton, University of MississippiFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-10-2025

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Education

First Advisor

Amy Wells Dolan

Second Advisor

Ann Monroe

Third Advisor

Felice Coles

Relational Format

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

As the number of English Language Learners (ELLs) in Mississippi’s public schools continues to rise, the state’s current systems of support have been lagging. This thesis examines how English Language Learners (ELLs) are supported in three states with distinct policies and programs: California, Texas, and Arizona. Then, these approaches are compared to the current situation in Mississippi. Using public education policies, state department guidelines, and existing research on instructional models, the study highlights key differences in program options, teacher preparation, and graduation outcomes in each state. The findings show that while states like California and Texas have invested in bilingualism and inclusive practices, Mississippi’s support is still limited to basic ESL services, often lacking sufficient guidance, training, and communication tools. In response, the study offers several practical, research-based recommendations for improving ELL support across the state, such as launching pilot dual-language programs, preparing all educators to teach ELLs more effectively, and increasing efforts to connect with ELL families. These recommendations aim to guide policymakers, districts, and schools toward a more equitable and responsive public education system that meets the needs of multilingual learners.

Recommended Citation

Haughton, Anne, "Seeing the Bigger Picture: A Comparative Approach to English Language Learner Policy and Practice in Mississippi" (2025). Honors Theses. 3251.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3251

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.