Learning & Development
Policy Brief/Analysis
A Blueprint for Developing Dual Language Learner Policies in Early Childhood Education Programs
Date
February 5, 2026
As programs and districts provide early childhood education for a growing population of dual language learners (DLLs), NIEER’s Blueprint for Developing Dual Language Learner Policies in Early Childhood Education Programs offers a practical “how-to” guide based on a New Jersey research–practice partnership. The report notes that state policy guidance doesn't always keep pace with needs, leaving districts to make uneven, site-by-site decisions. Ultimately, the report underscores the need for local-level policies to create systems to better provide equitable experiences for children and families.
The Blueprint outlines a 10-step framework to guide decision makers to develop local-level policies to support DLLs in a systematic way. Each step is based on research and experiences from our research-practice partnership. Included are specific tips for success for each step in the framework.
Click here to download the full Blueprint.
The Authors
Dr. Figueras-Daniel was awarded a Young Scholars Program grant from the Foundation for Child Development to investigate coaching and professional development of Latina preschool teachers working with DLLs. At NIEER, she leads this study as well a project to develop a Latina leadership pipeline in ECE.
About NIEER
The National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) at the Graduate School of Education, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, conducts and disseminates independent research and analysis to inform early childhood education policy.
Suggested Citation
Figueras-Daniel, A. & Rodriguez-Tighe, L. (2026). Blueprint for Developing Dual Language Learner Policies in Early Childhood Education Programs. National Institute for Early Education Research.
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