Research consistently underscores the powerful benefits of multilingual instructional programs for English Learners, yet these programs remain scarce—available in only 13 percent of California schools despite English Learners making up 18 percent of the student population.

Philanthropy has a unique opportunity to drive systemic change by supporting the expansion and improvement of these programs, ensuring more students gain access to high-quality multilingual education.

This research brief, based on a strategic and economic analysis by WestEd in partnership with Sobrato Philanthropies, offers data-driven insights and actionable recommendations to help funders invest in sustainable, scalable solutions for English Learners in California.