Multilingual learners (MLs) are among the fastest-growing student populations in U.S. schools. But while these students bring rich linguistic and cultural assets into the classroom, they are often met with a system that underestimates their potential or fails to provide the supports they need to thrive. It’s time we shift the narrative—from deficit to asset—and equip educators with tools designed to unlock the multilingual advantage.
The language we use reflects the values we uphold. While terms like English Language Learner (EL) are still common in federal grants and compliance documentation, researchers and educators are moving toward more affirming language—such as Emergent Bilingual or Multilingual Learner (ML). These terms recognize the reality: these students aren’t lacking in language—they are developing proficiency in more than one.
“Multilingual students bring cognitive ‘superpowers’—such as increased executive functioning and problem-solving—to the classroom,” notes a recent EdSurge article by Tamez-Robledo (2024). These strengths are not always reflected in standardized assessments, but they are real and consequential.
According to Education Week (Najarro, 2024), multilingual learners now make up over 10% of the K-12 population nationwide. In some districts, that number is more than double. And yet, these students often face the steepest academic challenges—especially in writing and speaking, which remain the lowest-performing domains nationally.
ThinkCERCA’s approach to literacy closes that gap. Our platform is designed to build language proficiency through rigorous, standards-aligned instruction, without lowering expectations.
ThinkCERCA supports all four domains of language development—reading, writing, speaking, and listening—with targeted scaffolds that make grade-level content accessible.
Our multilingual scaffolds include:
These features aren’t add-ons—they’re essentials, embedded into the daily experience of learning.
Academic vocabulary is often a gatekeeper for comprehension, especially in middle and high school. ThinkCERCA’s yearlong vocabulary program provides weekly, targeted instruction with explicit supports for multilingual learners. The goal? To build a shared academic language across content areas while honoring students’ home languages.
Instructional supports matter—but so does culture. Schools that celebrate heritage, invite parent voice, and reflect the communities they serve see higher engagement and stronger achievement outcomes.
When students feel seen, they show up—and grow.
Multilingual learners don’t need watered-down content or isolated support. They need inclusive, rigorous, and asset-based instruction that leverages their strengths and sets them up for success.
At ThinkCERCA, we’re here to partner with you to make that a reality—every day, in every classroom.
Schedule a demo or connect with our team to explore how we can support your ML strategy.