Children who have emigrated from other countries such as Mexico, Brazil or Spain naturally speak Spanish because that is the language they grew up with. When these students begin attending school here in America, they struggle in the classroom due to their lack of understanding. This problem has been the fundamental basis for the creation of programs for English language learners in the United States. The National Education Association has worked to engage in research and programs to reduce this learning gap in the country (NEA, n.d.). The problem is that many parents in this area, the West Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, do not speak or have difficulty with English, so it is natural that they use Spanish at home. However, when parents do not help their children practice the English language at home and prefer to refer to Spanish, this can make it difficult for their children to go to school and learn in English. This issue is in the hands of parents because the parents should understand the importance of encouraging their children's learning. A child needs the support of their parents, especially when going through such a difficult time, having to learn a new language can be incredibly difficult. In 2010, between 6 and 9.9 percent of students enrolled in Arizona schools were learning English (IES, n.d.). This statistic was much lower than in previous years. If a student fails to learn English, many of them are held back and forced to repeat the same year because they simply cannot move forward without knowing English. However, teachers and students can work together to solve this growing problem. Schools can organize voluntary courses for parents and students, together so that they can help each other learn the language. Evening lessons that help parents... middle of paper... understand how difficult it can be to feel alone with the weight of the world on your shoulders. It is hoped that, with the support of the education system, teachers, principals, counselors, etc., students can encourage their parents to attend classes that will benefit both them and their children.Works CitedIES. (n.d.). Quick facts, English language learners. Retrieved April 29, 2014, from https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=96 NEA. (n.d.). English language learners. Retrieved April 29, 2014, from http://www.nea.org/home/32346.htm Parent Brief. (July 2006). Promote effective parental involvement in secondary education and transition. Retrieved April 29, 2014, from http://www.ncset.org/publications/viewdesc.asp?id=3135 Washington State University. (n.d.). Why study foreign languages? Retrieved April 29, 2014, from http://www.forlang.wsu.edu/top10.asp