Californians Together

Californians Together, a statewide coalition, is dedicated to advancing the success of California's 1.1 million English learners. Through collaboration with the EBC, they are addressing systemic racial, language, and cultural disparities in education. Their focus spans early childhood to post-secondary education, advocating for evidence-based policies and practices.

With the support of the EBC, Californians Together has bolstered English learner educator engagement, particularly in the Central Valley region. Over 50 new advocates have attended the English Learner Advocacy Institute each year, with a select group participating in a yearlong fellowship to deepen local policy advocacy expertise. These advocates have united as the Valley English Learner Advocates (VELA), an integral part of the English Learner Leadership and Legacy Initiative (ELLLI) that now has over 380 members from across California.

VELA advocates come from all levels in the system including schools, district and county offices of education, and institutes of higher education and have concentrated advocacy efforts on dual language learners and early childhood education, Long-Term English Learners, Immigrant and Refugee Students, and the expansion of Dual Language Programs and pathways that lead to increased State Seal of Biliteracy awards. VELA continues to grow through the development of 5 regional hubs of ELLLI network members.  

To learn more about this work, please contact xilonin@caltog.org