Promoting School Adjustment for English-Language Learners Through Group Work

Abstract

Recently immigrated middle school English-language learners (ELLs) need academic, language acquisition, and acculturation supports. School counselors can use group counseling to foster positive school adjustment. Results of this study showed that students in the treatment group received significantly higher scores on school adjustment after controlling for preintervention scores. Students’ grade point average also increased following the intervention. Participant journal responses to school counselor prompts revealed expressions of sadness, loneliness, and hope for the future. The authors provide implications for group work practice and research.