A study of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) education in the United States is summarized. Focus is on special challenges in providing ESL education and promising ways in which providers are meeting those challenges. An introductory section describes the context of current ESL instruction, including the nature of the learners' needs and backgrounds and political issues. Several subsequent chapters address specific challenges, describe promising approaches used by some agencies and organizations, and propose additional strategies. The challenges discussed include barriers to student progress through the ESL system, testing and assessment, staffing (teachers and administrators), matching learner goals and curriculum focus, and use of computer technology. Research agendas are identified in each of those areas. The final section proposes a strategic plan for development and provision of ESL services, offering national goals, specific goals in administration, finance, and professional practice, and goals for the ESL field to address. (MSE) (Adjunct ERIC Clearinghouse on Literacy Education)