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Executive summary of report: 

 

Hawai‘i is one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse states. In 2017, Hawai‘i received a grant to explore outcomes for English Learners (ELs), with a focus on Asian and Pacific Islander ELs. This report explores the linguistic diversity of Hawai‘i’s public schools and examines outcomes for ELs.

 

Key findings include:

• About 18% of Hawai‘i’s public school students are, or have been, ELs.

• While 7% of students statewide receive EL services, in some geographic areas the rate is as high as 22%.

• Hawai‘i’s ELs use over 70 different languages, with Ilokano and Chuukese being the most common.

• On average, ELs who use Ilokano have better outcomes than ELs who use Chuukese.

• Students who exit EL services (because they have demonstrated English proficiency) have better outcomes than students who are not EL.

• For students who exit EL services before high school:

• 90% graduated high school on-time, compared to 83% for non-ELs;

• 64% enrolled in college in the first fall after high school, compared to 55% for non-ELs; and

• 44% completed a college award within six years, compared to 30% for non-ELs.

 

The Hawai‘i State Department of Education (DOE) aims to ensure equitable access to quality instruction for all students. The report also poses reflective questions and includes information about what DOE is doing to support ELs and best practices. Providing the data and reflective questions will help educators discuss and determine the most appropriate supports for ELs and their families.

 

Access the report at http://www.p20hawaii.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Rpt_ServingHawaiisEnglishLearners_2018_10.pdf