Children who have emigrated from other countries such as Mexico, Brazil or Spain naturally speak Spanish because it is the language with which they grew up. As these students begin attending school here in America, they struggle in the classroom due to their lack of understanding. This question formed the basis for the creation of English learning programs in the United States. The National Education Association has worked to engage in research and programs aimed at reducing 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 they naturally use Spanish at home. However, when parents do not help their child practice the English language at home and instead rely on Spanish, it can make it difficult for their child to go to school and learn in English. This problem lies in the hands of the parents because the parents must understand the importance of encouraging their child's learning. A child needs the support of their parents, especially when they are going through such a difficult time that 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 English learners (IES, n.d.). This statistic was much lower in previous years. If a student cannot learn English, many of them are held back and forced to repeat the same year because they simply cannot progress without knowing English. However, teachers and students can work together to solve this growing problem. Schools can implement voluntary lessons for parents and students, so that they can help each other learn the language. Evening classes that help parents... middle of paper ...... understand how difficult it can be to feel alone with the weight of the world on your shoulders. Hopefully, 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 child. (nd). Quick facts, English language learners. Accessed April 29, 2014, from https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=96 NEA. (nd). English language learners. Retrieved April 29, 2014 from http://www.nea.org/home/32346.htm Note to parents. (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. (nd). Why study foreign languages? Accessed April 29, 2014 from http://www.forlang.wsu.edu/top10.asp