%201.svg){kind=logo}
Summary Research Brief
From 2015 to 2019, Loyola Marymount University’s Center for Equity for English Learners (CEEL), in partnership with the Wexford Institute, conducted a rigorous multi year evaluation of the Sobrato Early Academic Language (SEAL) model. This replication study followed an earlier evaluation of SEAL in two Bay Area school districts. That initial research (Lindholm-Leary, 2015) found that despite starting school behind their peers, SEAL students caught up with or surpassed peers on various measures ranging from language and literacy to math and science. Based on that success, SEAL has rapidly expanded to additional schools and districts. With funding from the Sobrato Philanthropies, CEEL and the Wexford Institute studied SEAL’s implementation and outcomes in 67 schools from 12 California districts. This research brief summarizes the replication evaluation’s findings. The evaluators found that SEAL improved teaching practices and that SEAL ELs demonstrated stronger engagement as well as positive language development and academic outcomes. This evidence demonstrates that SEAL can be replicated at scale (CEEL & Wexford Institute, 2020). The brief concludes with implications for continued implementation and replication of SEAL and other practices to support English Learners.
Download the Resource
Our Resources
Looking for more ways to engage your students and create a joyful learning environment? We’ve curated the best resources—from SEAL-approved tools for Dual Language and Multilingual Learners to videos that bring you directly into our classrooms —to give your students the opportunity to learn, thrive, and lead.
Centering English Learner/ Emergent Bilingual Students in Literacy Research and Instruction
There is a considerable amount of attention currently on the science of reading, with many states rushing to adopt policies that are purportedly aligned with it.
A P-3 Framework: Centering English Learners
This framework is authored by Dr. Laurie Olsen, provides a vision of an inclusive, equitable P–3 system that draws on EL expertise to create an aligned schooling system responsive to English Learners from early education through the elementary grades.
Building the Supply of Bilingual Teachers in California
Evidence From State Investment Shows Districts Should Look Closer to Home for Bilingual Teacher Candidates
SEAL Brief: Centering Multilingual Families in California Community Schools
Community schools are schools where the resources and voices of the staff, families and community are organized around supporting student success.