ABSTRACT
In this introductory chapter, we present a discussion of the current system-level barriers to learning for multilingual learners (MLs) in schools and explain how a systems thinking approach enables the development of stronger school-wide multi-tiered systems and structures to address these barriers. We provide an overview and definitions of four key levers within a system improvement framework for culturally and linguistically responsive practices in schools to support MLs, described in detail in subsequent chapters in the book. These levers and our framework come out of research, interviews, document analysis, and school support activities conducted by the authors in schools with sizable English learner populations and documented successful practices. We explain how the levers address common challenges and barriers that schools face in serving MLs, and provide framing for utilizing the vignettes, case studies, and descriptive examples throughout this book to show and describe the actual implementation of these successful practices.
