Digital Commons at Loyola Marymount University and Loyola Law School
Abstract
Findings from a 3-year (2006-2009) evaluation of the PROMISE Model pilot are presented in this policy brief that seeks to address three questions: 1) What is the PROMISE Model ?; 2) What changes occurred in schools as a results of implementing the PROMISE Model ?; and 3) What are the lessons learned from the PROMISE Model pilot that can contribute to an understanding of school reform for English Learners? A qualitative, ethnographic approach allowed for exploration of the research questions. The researcher identified five foundational elements to the PROMISE Model. Implementation of the PROMISE Model increased use of EL specific research-based approaches to student grouping, placement, instruction, school structures, curriculum choices, program design and practices in addition to more knowledgeable and advocacy-oriented leaders and distributive leadership. The brief presents five lessons learned that contribute to a deeper understanding of the impact of a school reform model on English Learners. Two policy recommendations include: 1) broadly disseminate research on effective EL education and provide an infrastructure of support with EL expertise; and 2) adopt the PROMISE Model or components of the model as a viable school improvement strategy.https://digitalcommons.lmu.edu/ceel_education_policybriefs/1002/thumbnail.jp