Representation of English Language Learners in Special Education: A Campus-Level Study

Nationally, ELs are overrepresented in special education. This study examined data reported at the district and school levels. It found that in one middle school, ELs were twice as likely as non-ELs to be identified as needing special education services. In a high school in the study, ELs were one-half times more likely to be labeled as needing special education services.