English Learner and Latino enrollments are growing quickly, yet scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) declined for both groups in 8th grade mathematics over the past decade. Efforts to improve algebra learning often keep mathematics and Multilingual Learner work in separate silos, and Latino students’ needs are frequently folded into English Learner categories.

This report from WestEd scans initiatives across 13 state education agencies with large or growing English Learner and Latino populations, measuring them against five research-based principles for quality algebra learning: rigorous mathematics, a purposeful language focus, participation, identity-affirming pedagogy, and critical awareness. State education leaders, mathematics and Multilingual Learner teams, and policymakers will find achievement data, cross-state patterns, and recommendations for aligning initiatives and building networks.