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The Board on Children, Youth, and Families (BCYF) of the Institute of Medicine and National Research Council is searching for experts in the scientific, technical, and medical professions to be considered for a study committee titled “Fostering the Development and Educational Success of Young English Language Learners and Dual Language Learners: Toward New Directions in Policy, Practice, and Research.” The committee will address the continuum of young English and Dual language learners (ELL/DLL) with two focus areas examining the development of language and cultural influences from the home to the community for children birth to age 8; and systems and policies affecting ELL/DLL children and youth in grades K-12, including standards and practices across diverse contexts to foster educational achievement among young ELLs/DLLs. The committee will come to consensus on findings and recommendations that aim to inform a research agenda to address gaps in the knowledge base, policies that impact young ELLs/DLLs, and practices in the range of settings where young ELLs/DLLs learn, grow, and develop, including homes, classrooms and health care settings. The committee’s report will be sponsored by the U.S. Education Department, Health Resources and Services Administration and Administration for Children and Families of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Foundation for Child Development.

Please provide names of any persons you think should be considered for this important task. Please use the following form to submit your recommendations: http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/1845093/. Suggestions are sought for qualified individuals in all sectors of the scientific and technical community. Experts in the following fields are needed for the committee: Neuroscience, Developmental Psychology, Linguistics, Demography, General Education, Special Education, Sociology, Public Policy, Cultural Anthropology, and Health. Service on the study committee is also open to scientists and other experts working for a government agency or other sponsor of this project if (1) they have relevant scientific and technical expertise needed to accomplish the committee’s task, and (2) their service will not appear to compromise the independence and objectivity of the study. The BCYF is committed to increasing the participation of under-represented minorities in all phases of its work. The excellence of the members of its study committees is crucial to its work. Your assistance in identifying potential committee members especially from under-represented minorities is greatly appreciated. For further information, contact Sheila Moats, BCYF program officer, at SMoats@nas.edu.

NCELA Nexus Newsletter October 24, 2014.