The following communication barriers were consistently identified as the primary barrier for ELL student academic achievement. 
- lack of effective communication between student and teacher
- lack of effective communication between teacher and parent
- lack of effective communication between parent an student
- lack of effective communication between schools in the district


Communication Gap Barrier for ELL Students

Teachers lack preparation in three areas:
 - multiculturalism
 - language acquisition
 - ELL instructional strategies

Lack of Teacher Preparation Barrier for ELL Students

There were differences in the way parents expected teachers to engage with their students and with them based on previous experience with their schools from home. 

Culture Clash Barrier for ELL Students

The district needs to work with the schools to develop an effective and comprehensive plan for addressing the needs of ELL students

Lack of Effective District ELL Plan 

Parents and Teachers of ELL students identified 5 main barriers:
- communication gaps
- lack of teacher preparation
- lack of transitional support
- lack of effective district ELL plan
- culture clashes

San Jose State University

Using critical inquiry and cultural-ecological theory, Good et al. investigate the reasons why ELL (English language learner) Hispanic students consistently underperform non ELL students academically.

ELL Academic Performance Gap Among Latino Students

Good, M. E., Masewicz, S., & Vogel, L. (2010). Latino English Language Learners: Bridging Achievement and Cultural Gaps Between Schools and Families. Journal of Latinos and Education, 9(4), 321–339. https://doi.org/10.1080/15348431.2010.491048

 Latino English Language Learners: Bridging Achievement and Cultural Gaps Between Schools and Families

Barriers to Academic Achievement for ELL Hispanic Students

- bilingual teachers
- English classes for parents
- cross-district collaboration on ELL teaching efforts
- parent-to-school communication and feedback opportunities
- develop  a strategic, comprehensive ELL plan
- ELL support in early grades
- availability of bilingual programs
- prepare teachers with adequate ELL instructional tools
- transitional support tools such as mental health resources

Solutions to Barriers for ELL Hispanic Students

Good et al. suggest 9 actions to improve the achievement of Hispanic ELL students. 

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