1. What percentage of the state budget is allocated towards immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina?

Unfortunately, it is difficult to determine an exact percentage of the state budget that is allocated towards immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina. This is because there are several different programs and departments within the state government that support immigrants and their education, and it is unclear how much funding each of these receives. Additionally, funding for these initiatives may also come from federal sources or private organizations.

Some examples of programs and departments that support immigrant education in North Carolina include English as a Second Language (ESL) programs in public schools, language access services provided by the Department of Health and Human Services, and community organizations that offer literacy and job training programs for immigrants.

According to a report by the National Conference of State Legislatures, in fiscal year 2018-2019, North Carolina spent approximately $2.1 billion on K-12 education. It is possible that some portion of this funding went towards ESL programs for immigrant students, but it is difficult to determine an exact percentage.

In summary, while there are various initiatives and services in place to support immigrant education in North Carolina, it is not possible to accurately estimate what percentage of the state budget is specifically allocated towards these efforts.

2. How does North Carolina ensure equal access to education for undocumented immigrants?

There is no uniform policy or practice for providing education to undocumented immigrants in North Carolina. However, there are several measures in place that aim to ensure equal access to education for all students, regardless of immigration status.

1. Plyler v. Doe: In 1982, the Supreme Court ruled in Plyler v. Doe that states cannot deny a free public education to undocumented children. This ruling applies nationwide and requires schools to provide K-12 education to all students, regardless of their immigration status.

2. Equal Education Opportunities Act: This federal law prohibits states from denying equal educational opportunities to any student based on their race, color, sex, religion, or national origin.

3. Charter Schools: All charter schools in North Carolina are required to follow the same admission process as traditional public schools and cannot discriminate against students based on their immigration status.

4. State Law: The state of North Carolina has laws in place that require all children between the ages of 6 and 16 to attend school. These laws do not distinguish between documented and undocumented students.

5. Language Access: North Carolina provides interpretation and translation services for non-English speaking families to ensure they have access to information about enrollment, services, and programs offered by the school district.

6. In-State Tuition for Select Undocumented Students: Under certain circumstances, some undocumented students may be eligible for in-state tuition rates at community colleges and public universities in North Carolina through the NC Residency Determination Service (RDS). For example, students who have attended a North Carolina high school for three consecutive years may be eligible.

Overall, while there may be challenges facing undocumented students in accessing higher education or receiving financial aid due to their immigration status, efforts are being made in North Carolina to ensure equal access to basic education for all students.

3. What state programs or policies are in place to support immigrant students in North Carolina schools?

Some state programs and policies in North Carolina that support immigrant students in schools include:

1. In-state tuition for undocumented students: The state offers in-state tuition rates to qualified undocumented students, allowing them to attend college at a more affordable cost.

2. Bilingual Education Programs: The state has laws and policies that support the development of bilingual education programs for English language learners (ELLs). These programs provide academic instruction in both English and the student’s native language to help them achieve proficiency in both languages.

3. ESL Programs: English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are offered by many schools across the state to help immigrant students improve their English skills. These programs can include specialized classes, tutoring, or extra support within regular classrooms.

4. Migrant Education Program: This program provides academic support, remedial assistance, and other services to migrant farmworker families, including their children who may have educational needs due to their frequent moves.

5. Refugee Assistance Programs: There are several refugee resettlement agencies in North Carolina that offer services such as school enrollment assistance and after-school tutoring for refugee students.

6. Dual Enrollment Policies: Some high schools in North Carolina allow qualified immigrant students to enroll in college-level courses while still in high school, giving them a head start on their higher education journey.

7. Outreach and Support Services: Many schools have dedicated staff members or offices that provide outreach and support services for immigrant students and their families. These can include translation services, cultural competency training for teachers, and connecting families with community resources.

8. Anti-Discrimination Policies: Schools are required by federal law to protect all students from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, or immigration status. In addition, North Carolina has specific anti-bullying laws that apply to incidents based on real or perceived immigration status.

9. Dreamers’ Resource Centers: Some colleges and universities in North Carolina have established Dreamers’ Resource Centers to provide academic and financial support for undocumented students pursuing higher education.

10. North Carolina Justice Center: The North Carolina Justice Center is a nonprofit organization that offers resources and support for immigrants and their families, including information on educational rights and access to legal assistance.

4. In what ways do language barriers affect funding for immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina?

1. Limited Access to Information: Language barriers can prevent immigrant students and their families from being fully informed about the available education initiatives in North Carolina. They may miss out on important information about eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other details, resulting in reduced participation and potentially missing out on funding opportunities.

2. Difficulty in Completing Applications: Immigrant students or their families who do not speak English fluently may struggle with filling out application forms that are only available in English, leading to incomplete or inaccurate submissions. This could result in their applications being rejected, further limiting their access to funding for education initiatives.

3. Lack of Communication with Program Administrators: Language barriers can make it difficult for immigrant students or their families to communicate with program administrators, often resulting in misunderstandings or miscommunication. This can hinder the process of applying for and obtaining funding for education initiatives.

4. Inadequate Awareness of Education Initiatives: Due to language barriers, many immigrant families may not be aware of the various education initiatives available to them in North Carolina. This lack of knowledge can limit their access to funding opportunities and hinder the success of these programs.

5.Importance of Language Proficiency Tests: Some education initiatives require applicants to take standardized tests as part of the application process. These tests are often only available in English, making it difficult for non-English-speaking immigrants to participate and qualify for funding.

6. Limited Networking Opportunities: Building relationships with donors and sponsors is an important factor in securing funds for education initiatives. However, due to language barriers, immigrant students and their families may face challenges in networking and building connections with potential funders, hindering their chances of receiving financial support.

7. Negative Stereotypes and Bias: Discrimination based on language proficiency is a prevalent issue that can affect funding opportunities for immigrant education initiatives. Some donors or sponsors may have negative stereotypes or biases towards non-English-speaking immigrants, which could impact their decision to support these initiatives.

8. Inequitable Distribution of Funds: Language barriers can also contribute to the inequitable distribution of funds for education initiatives among immigrant communities. Some groups may have better access to information or resources, resulting in certain communities receiving more funding than others due to language proficiency.

9. Lack of Participation and Representation: Language barriers can result in limited participation and representation of immigrant students in education initiatives. This can impact the overall success and impact of these programs, as immigrant voices and perspectives may not be adequately represented.

10. Post-Funding Challenges: Even if immigrant students or their families are able to obtain funding for education initiatives, language barriers can continue to pose challenges. For example, understanding program requirements or managing finances may be difficult without knowledge of English, which could hinder the success of the initiative in the long run.

5. How does North Carolina address cultural sensitivity and diversity within its immigrant education programming?

North Carolina has implemented several policies and practices to address cultural sensitivity and diversity within its immigrant education programming. These include:

1. Providing Language Support: The state offers language support services such as English as a Second Language (ESL) programs and bilingual education programs to help students whose first language is not English learn academic content in their native language.

2. Cultural Competency Training: To promote cultural sensitivity among educators, the state provides training and professional development opportunities to teachers on cultural competency and understanding the needs of immigrant students.

3. Multicultural Curriculum: North Carolina has adopted a multicultural curriculum that includes materials and resources representing diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences. This helps promote cultural understanding among all students, including immigrants.

4. Parental Involvement: The state encourages parental involvement in their children’s education by providing information in multiple languages, hosting parent-teacher conferences with interpreters or bilingual staff, and offering workshops on navigating the U.S. education system for immigrant parents.

5. Collaborating with Community Organizations: North Carolina partners with community organizations that work with immigrant families to provide additional support services such as tutoring, mentoring, and legal assistance.

6. Addressing Bullying and Discrimination: The state has anti-bullying policies in place to protect immigrant students from discrimination based on their race, nationality, or immigration status.

7. Cultural Exchange Programs: North Carolina offers cultural exchange programs that allow students from different countries to interact with one another, promoting mutual understanding and respect among diverse groups of students.

8. Language Access Services: To ensure effective communication with limited English proficiency families, the state provides language access services such as translation of important documents and interpretation services at school events.

Overall, these policies and initiatives aim to create a welcoming and inclusive learning environment for immigrant students in North Carolina while also promoting cultural sensitivity and diversity within the education system.

6. Does North Carolina have any partnerships with local immigration organizations to support education initiatives?

Yes, North Carolina has several partnerships with local immigration organizations to support education initiatives. These organizations include:

1. The North Carolina Justice Center: This organization works to advance policies and programs that promote economic, social, and racial justice in North Carolina. They prioritize immigrant and refugee rights and have partnerships with schools to provide educational resources for students and families.

2. The NC Immigrant Education Project (NCAIEP): NCAIEP is a statewide network of educators dedicated to ensuring the academic success of immigrant students in North Carolina. They offer professional development opportunities for teachers, workshops for parents, and advocacy efforts to improve policies related to immigrant education.

3. The Hispanic Liaison/Fiesta Educativa: This organization provides educational services and support for Hispanic students and their families, including after-school tutoring, parent workshops on education rights, college preparation assistance, and scholarships.

4. El Pueblo: El Pueblo is an advocacy organization focused on promoting the involvement of Latino immigrants in their communities while striving towards equity, social justice, and human rights protections. They offer educational events and resources for immigrants, including workshops on navigating the US education system.

5. The Eastern North Carolina Latin American Coalition (ENCLAC): ENCLAC is a non-profit organization that works with the Hispanic/Latino community in eastern North Carolina through advocacy, cultural celebration events, and educational initiatives.

Overall, these organizations work closely with schools and school districts to provide resources for immigrant students and families while also advocating for policies that support their educational success.

7. Are there any specific grants available for schools in North Carolina that have high numbers of immigrant students?

Yes, there are several grant opportunities available specifically for schools in North Carolina with high numbers of immigrant students. Here are a few examples:

1) NC Rural Grant Program: This grant provides funding for small and underserved schools in North Carolina, including those with significant populations of immigrant students.

2) English Language Acquisition (ELA) Supplemental Grant: This grant supports schools and districts with programs that assist English Learners in developing English proficiency. Schools with high numbers of immigrant students are prioritized for this grant.

3) Title III Immigrant Student Subgrant Program: Administered by the U.S. Department of Education, this grant provides funds to states to support the education of recently arrived immigrant students, including academic support, language instruction, and other services.

4) NC Completion Initiative: This grant is designed to increase access to postsecondary education for low-income and underrepresented students, including immigrants and refugees.

Schools should also check with their local school district or county for additional grants or funding opportunities specific to their area.

8. Does immigration status impact a student’s eligibility for state-funded educational resources in North Carolina?

Yes, in North Carolina, undocumented students are not eligible for state-funded educational resources such as scholarships or financial aid. However, they may be eligible for private scholarships and institutional aid from their college or university.

9. How does North Carolina ensure accountability and oversight of funds allocated for immigrant education initiatives?

North Carolina ensures accountability and oversight of funds allocated for immigrant education initiatives through various methods and organizations, including:

1. Department of Public Instruction (DPI): The DPI is responsible for overseeing all education initiatives in North Carolina, including those targeted towards immigrant students. They allocate and monitor the use of state and federal funding for programs such as English Language Learner (ELL) programs.

2. State Board of Education: The State Board of Education is the governing body that sets policies and regulations for all public schools in North Carolina. They closely monitor the implementation of programs and services for immigrant students to ensure they are meeting academic standards.

3. Local Education Agencies (LEAs): LEAs are responsible for managing schools within their district and implementing programs funded by the state or federal government. They are required to report on the use of funds and outcomes of these programs to the DPI.

4. Office of Charter Schools: In addition to traditional public schools, there are also charter schools in North Carolina that receive state funding but operate independently from local school districts. These schools must also follow state regulations and report on their use of funds.

5. Title III Funds Oversight Committee: This committee is made up of representatives from various stakeholders, such as parents, teachers, administrators, and community members, to oversee the use of Title III federal funds specifically designated for ELL students.

6. Program Monitoring: The DPI conducts regular monitoring visits to schools receiving federal funding for ELL programs to ensure compliance with grant requirements.

7. Data Collection and Reporting: The North Carolina Education Information System collects data on ELL students’ academic progress, demographics, program participation, and other factors to track outcomes and determine the effectiveness of immigrant education initiatives.

8.Migrant Education Program (MEP): This program provides support services to children whose families migrate across school district lines in search of agricultural work. It is federally funded but administered by the state department of education.

Overall, through these various mechanisms, North Carolina ensures that funds allocated for immigrant education initiatives are used appropriately and effectively to support the academic success of immigrant students.

10. What evidence-based strategies does North Carolina use to improve academic outcomes for immigrant students?

There are several strategies that North Carolina uses to improve academic outcomes for immigrant students, including:

1. English as a Second Language (ESL) programs: These programs provide specialized instruction in the English language for students who have limited proficiency. They are designed to help students develop the language skills necessary to succeed in academic settings.

2. Dual-language programs: These programs promote bilingualism and biliteracy by instructing students in both English and their native language. This approach helps immigrant students retain their home language while developing English proficiency.

3. Cultural competency training for teachers: North Carolina provides training for teachers to better understand the cultural backgrounds and experiences of immigrant students. This can help them create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.

4. Support services for families: Many schools in North Carolina offer support services for families of immigrant students, such as translation services, parent education classes, and community resources. These services can help families navigate the education system and be more involved in their children’s education.

5. Professional development for educators: North Carolina offers professional development opportunities for educators to learn effective strategies for working with immigrant students, such as culturally responsive teaching methods and how to adapt curriculum materials for diverse learners.

6. Collaboration with community organizations: Many schools in North Carolina partner with local community organizations that serve immigrant populations, such as churches or refugee resettlement agencies. These partnerships can provide additional support and resources for immigrant students and their families.

7. Accessible educational materials: In an effort to include all learners, North Carolina provides translated versions of important educational materials, such as enrollment forms, parent handbooks, and report cards.

8. Mentorship programs: Some schools in North Carolina offer mentorship programs where older immigrant students are paired with younger ones to provide academic support and help them acclimate to a new school environment.

9. Culturally relevant curriculum: To engage immigrant students in learning, many schools incorporate culturally relevant materials into the curriculum, such as literature and history that reflect the experiences of diverse populations.

10. Data monitoring and tracking: North Carolina closely monitors data on the academic progress of immigrant students and uses this information to identify areas for improvement and measure the effectiveness of strategies implemented. This allows for targeted interventions to support the success of immigrant students.

11. Is additional state funding provided to schools with high concentrations of recently arrived immigrants in North Carolina?

Yes, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction provides additional state funding through the Supplemental Support for English Language Learners (ELLs) program. This program allocates additional funds to schools with high percentages of ELLs to support language instruction and other resources necessary for their academic success. Additionally, some schools may receive additional federal funding through Title III, which provides support specifically for ELLs.

12. Are teachers and staff trained on how to meet the unique needs of immigrant students in North Carolina’s schools?

It is not mandated by the state of North Carolina for teachers and staff to receive specific training on meeting the unique needs of immigrant students. However, many districts and schools may offer professional development opportunities or resources for teachers to better understand and support immigrant students. Additionally, schools may have multilingual staff or interpreters available to assist with communication and cultural understanding.

13. How does lack of federal funding impact state efforts towards supporting immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina?

The lack of federal funding can significantly impact state efforts towards supporting immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina in the following ways:

1. Limited Resources: Federal funding plays a crucial role in providing resources and financial support to state education programs. Without adequate funding, states may struggle to provide necessary resources like textbooks, technology, teacher salaries, and other educational materials for immigrant students.

2. Inadequate Training for Teachers: Immigrant students often require specialized support and instruction due to language barriers and cultural differences. Lack of federal funding can make it challenging for states to provide training and professional development opportunities for teachers to effectively support these students.

3. Reduced Access to Programs and Services: Many federally funded programs like English language learner (ELL) programs, after-school programs, or summer school programs are essential for the academic success of immigrant students. Insufficient funding can lead to limited access to these services, hindering the academic progress of immigrant students.

4. Limited Outreach Efforts: Federal funding also supports outreach efforts to identify and enroll eligible immigrant students in educational programs. Without adequate resources, states may struggle to reach out to families and inform them about available educational opportunities.

5. Impact on Immigrant Communities: The lack of federal funding can create a negative impact on the overall well-being and integration of immigrant communities in North Carolina. Education is essential for immigrants’ socio-economic mobility and integration into their new communities, and insufficient funding can hinder their success.

6. Potential Increase in Drop-out Rates: Without proper support and resources, some immigrant students may struggle academically and ultimately drop out of school. This could have long-term consequences on their future opportunities and the state’s economy as a whole.

Overall, the lack of federal funding can significantly hamper North Carolina’s efforts towards providing quality education for its growing immigrant population. It is crucial for both state governments and the federal government to prioritize funding for these initiatives to ensure equal educational opportunities for all students, regardless of their immigration status.

14. Does the current political climate affect the availability and allocation of funds for immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina?

The current political climate can have an impact on the availability and allocation of funds for immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina. Given the recent changes in federal immigration policies, there has been a decrease in federal funding for programs that specifically target immigrant communities. This has led to fewer resources being available for organizations and schools that provide educational support and services to immigrants.

Additionally, state and local policies can also impact the availability and allocation of funds for immigrant education initiatives. In North Carolina, the state legislature has proposed bills that would restrict funding for English as a Second Language (ESL) programs in public schools, which could restrict access to quality education for immigrant students.

On the other hand, some cities and counties in North Carolina have allocated their own funds to support immigrant integration programs and initiatives, such as community-based ESL classes and citizenship workshops. These local efforts can help fill in some of the gaps left by decreased federal funding.

Overall, the current political climate has created a challenging environment for organizations and schools that work with immigrant populations to secure necessary funding. However, it has also highlighted the importance of local support and community-driven initiatives to address the needs of immigrant families in North Carolina.

15. In what ways are charter or private schools funded by the state addressing the needs of immigrant students in North Carolina?

Charter and private schools in North Carolina may receive state funding through a variety of channels, including per-pupil funding, grants, and tax credits. However, the way that these schools address the needs of immigrant students may vary.

1. English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs: Some charter and private schools may specifically target and allocate resources for ESL programs to support the linguistic needs of immigrant students. These programs may offer specialized instruction to help students develop English language proficiency.

2. Cultural Competency Training: In order to create an inclusive learning environment for immigrant students, charter and private schools may provide cultural competency training to their teachers and staff. This can help them better understand the experiences and needs of immigrant students, and adapt their teaching strategies accordingly.

3. Outreach Programs: Some charter and private schools may partner with community organizations or other educational institutions to reach out to immigrant families and provide information about their school’s programs and resources. This can help build trust and familiarity with the school among immigrant families.

4. Flexible Curriculum: Charter schools have more control over their curriculum compared to traditional public schools, which allows them to incorporate culturally relevant materials in their teaching methods. This can provide a sense of inclusion for immigrant students by reflecting their cultural backgrounds in the classroom.

5. Scholarships: Many private schools offer scholarships or financial aid opportunities for low-income families, including immigrant families who may face financial barriers to accessing these types of education options.

6. Community Engagement: Charter and private schools may also engage with local community organizations or parent-teacher associations to involve parents in their children’s education. This can promote a deeper understanding of the school’s approach towards educating immigrant students.

Overall, while charter and private schools are not required to follow the same regulations as public schools when it comes to supporting immigrant students, many still prioritize offering culturally responsive instruction and creating an inclusive environment for all students.

16. How does equitable distribution of funds across different regions within the state impact immigrant students’ access to quality education?

Equitable distribution of funds across different regions within the state can have a significant impact on immigrant students’ access to quality education in several ways:

1. Adequate resources for schools in low-income and immigrant-heavy areas: Equitable distribution of funds ensures that schools in low-income and immigrant-heavy areas receive sufficient funding to support their diverse student population. This can help these schools provide adequate resources such as well-trained teachers, updated technology, and comprehensive language programs, which can improve the overall quality of education for immigrant students.

2. Fair allocation of resources for English Language Learners (ELLs): ELLs require specialized instruction and support to develop their language skills and succeed academically. Equitable distribution of funds can ensure that schools with a higher concentration of ELLs receive enough funds to meet the needs of these students.

3. Access to high-quality educational programs: Schools in affluent areas often have more advanced academic programs, clubs, and extracurricular activities that are not available in schools located in lower-income or immigrant communities due to lack of funding. Equitable distribution of funds can help bridge this gap and provide opportunities for immigrant students to participate in high-quality educational programs that can enhance their learning experience.

4. Equal opportunities for college preparation: With equitable distribution of funds, schools in underprivileged areas will have access to resources such as career counseling, college fairs, SAT/ACT prep courses, and other college preparation programs. This creates equal opportunities for all students regardless of their socioeconomic status or immigration background to pursue higher education.

5. Reduced achievement gap: When immigrants are given equal access to educational resources through equitable distribution of funds, it reduces the achievement gap between immigrant students and their native peers. This helps foster an environment where all students have an equal chance at academic success.

Overall, equitable distribution of funds can play a crucial role in providing immigrant students with the necessary tools and resources they need to thrive academically, break barriers, and have equal opportunities for a successful future.

17. Is there any data tracking on the effectiveness and impact of state-funded immigrant education programs in improving student outcomes?

Yes, there is data tracking on the effectiveness and impact of state-funded immigrant education programs. Many states have implemented data collection systems to track student outcomes in their immigrant education programs. This data includes information on student demographics, English language proficiency levels, academic achievement, graduation rates, and post-secondary enrollment.

Some states also conduct evaluations or studies to assess the impact of their immigrant education programs on students’ academic progress and overall well-being. These evaluations may include surveys, interviews, or classroom observations to gather feedback from students, parents, teachers, and program administrators.

Overall, research has shown that state-funded immigrant education programs can have a positive impact on students’ linguistic and academic development. For example, a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Education found that students who participated in state-funded English language development programs showed significant gains in their English proficiency skills compared to non-participants.

Additionally, many states also track the long-term outcomes of students who participated in their immigrant education programs. This may include tracking college enrollment rates and career success after high school graduation.

By collecting and analyzing data on the effectiveness and impact of state-funded immigrant education programs, states can identify areas for improvement and make informed decisions about resource allocation to better support the needs of immigrant students.

18. Are there any legislative efforts being made at the state level to increase funding for immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina?

I could not find any specific legislative efforts aimed at increasing funding for immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina. However, there are ongoing discussions and efforts at the state level to address and support immigrant students, such as providing resources and services for English language learners and advocating for more inclusive policies in schools. Additionally, some non-profit organizations and advocacy groups may be working towards obtaining state funding for immigrant education programs.

19.In what ways does North Carolina collaborate with neighboring states to address immigration and education issues affecting immigrant students?

North Carolina collaborates with neighboring states in several ways to address immigration and education issues affecting immigrant students:

1. Sharing best practices: State education agencies from North Carolina and its neighboring states regularly meet to share best practices for addressing the unique needs of immigrant students. This allows them to learn from each other’s experiences and improve their own strategies.

2. Cross-state agreements: North Carolina has signed agreements with neighboring states such as Virginia and South Carolina to improve coordination and communication regarding the eligibility, enrollment, and educational needs of immigrant students. These agreements also aim to facilitate seamless transition for students who may move between these states.

3. Regional task forces: Several regional task forces have been established in partnership with other states to tackle issues related to immigration and education, including language barriers, access to resources, and cultural competency training for educators.

4. Collaborative research initiatives: North Carolina works with neighboring states on joint research projects focused on understanding the impact of immigration on education systems and identifying effective approaches for supporting immigrant students.

5. Professional development opportunities: North Carolina provides professional development opportunities both within the state and in collaboration with neighboring states to help educators better support immigrant students by improving cultural competence, language instruction, understanding of immigrant rights, etc.

6. Joint advocacy efforts: The state collaborates with its neighbors in advocating for policies that benefit immigrants, such as in-state tuition rates for undocumented students or protections against discrimination based on immigration status.

7. Information sharing: North Carolina’s education agency shares information about available resources and initiatives with its counterparts in neighboring states to ensure that all eligible immigrant students are aware of the services they can access.

Overall, these collaborations help build stronger networks among state education agencies and promote more effective responses to immigration-related challenges faced by schools throughout the region. By working together, these states can better support their growing numbers of immigrant students and ensure their success in pursuit of education opportunities.

20. How has the state budget for immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina evolved over the past decade, and what future developments can be expected?

The state budget for immigrant education initiatives in North Carolina has gone through several changes over the past decade. In 2010, the state began providing funding for English as a Second Language (ESL) programs in public schools to support students who are non-native speakers of English.

In 2015, the state implemented an initiative called “English Learner Services,” which provided additional funding and resources to support students who are learning English as their second language. This included funds for ESL teachers, language instruction materials, and parent outreach programs.

In 2017, the state introduced an initiative called “Dual Language Immersion Programs” which expanded access to bilingual education for students in grades K-12. These programs offer instruction in both English and another language, such as Spanish or Chinese.

Additionally, in recent years there have been efforts by advocates and legislators to increase overall funding for education in North Carolina, which would benefit immigrant students indirectly by providing more resources to schools.

Looking ahead, it is expected that there will continue to be a focus on supporting immigrant students and English learners through targeted initiatives and increased funding for public education. As North Carolina continues to experience growth in its immigrant population, it is likely that these efforts will be a priority for many lawmakers. However, budget constraints and political considerations may impact the amount of funding available for these initiatives in the future.